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Shock
Life threatening causes of shock are
- bleeding (internal/external)
- burns
- heart problems
- overexposure - heat
- poisoning
- spinal injuries
Milder cases of shock may also result from injury or mental trauma..
What to look for
The casualty may have
- pale, cold and clammy skin
- rapid and weak pulse
- rapid, irregular and shallow breathing (The casualty may yawn and sigh)
- feelings of weakness and dizziness, nausea, thirst, coldness, apprehension and restlessness
- decreasing level of consciousness
What to do
- Control severe bleeding
- Make the casualty comfortable
- Assist the casualty to lie down on a protected surface
- Reassure the casualty and keep them calm and quiet
- Raise their legs (unless fractured) above the level of the heart to maintain blood flow to the vital organs
- Loosen tight clothing
- Protect them from temperature extremes. Place a light cover over the casualty but do not overheat
- Moisten lips if the casualty is thirsty
- Attend to other injuries
- Seek medical assistance
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