SHOCK

 Basic information

description

Shock occurs when the heart and blood vessels are unable to supply enough blood and oxygen to meet the demands of the body. Shock can be caused by several different conditions and is a medical emergency.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Fast, weak pulse.
• Not knowing where you are or confusion.
• Anxiety with feelings of impending doom.
• Skin that is cold, pale, moist, and sweaty.
• Shortness of breath and rapid breathing.
• Lack of urination.
• Low blood pressure.
• Dizziness or fainting.
• Chest pain or bluish lips or nails.

causes

• Hypovolemic shock is a sudden loss of blood or body fluids. The bleeding may be visible, or bleeding may occur inside the body. Sudden fluid loss occurs with severe burns, severe vomiting, and/or diarrhea.
• Cardiogenic shock is due to damaged heart function. This includes heart attack or heart failure.
• Anaphylactic shock is an adverse reaction to a substance to which the body is sensitive. These can include drugs such as penicillin, insect bites, or food allergies.
• Septic shock is caused by blood poisoning or major infections in the body (e.g., toxic shock syndrome).
• Neurogenic shock is caused by damage to the nervous system, such as a spinal cord injury.
• Shock can be caused by exposure to extreme heat or cold for too long.

risk increases with

• Serious injury, illness, or surgery.
• Heart disorders.
• Contact with a substance you are allergic to.
• Overdose of mind-altering drugs.
• Excess alcohol consumption.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• You can't prevent shock. You can avoid the risk factors where possible.
• You may be able to help someone in shock, or prevent shock, until emergency medical help is available if you are prepared. To prepare yourself:
  • Take a first aid course.
  • If you or a family member has a severe allergy, be sure there is an emergency kit available and that you know how to give the injection.
  • Carry emergency supplies, such as a first aid kit, in your car or truck.
• Wear a medical alert tag if you have a serious medical or allergy problem.

expected outcomes

The outcome will depend on how severe the symptoms are and receiving prompt treatment.

possible complications

• Heart or lungs are unable to function.
• Permanent brain damage.
• Death.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Call for emergency help right away. Shock requires immediate medical care.
• While waiting for emergency help:
  • Do not move person if spinal injury is suspected.
  • Have person lie down on his or her back.
  • Keep person warm and comfortable.
  • Take direction from the 911 operator. They can advise you on what to do to help the patient.
• Emergency care in the hospital will include fluids given through a vein, oxygen for breathing support, and drugs. A careful physical exam will be done. Treatment will be provided for the injuries or other causes of the shock. The patient will be watched closely for any complications until the risk is over.

medications

• If shock is from blood or fluid loss, treatment includes blood transfusion or fluids given through a vein.
• If blood pressure is at a dangerous low level, drugs to raise blood pressure may be given.
• If infection is present, antibiotics will be used.

activity

Rest in bed until completely recovered. Move legs actively while in bed to decrease the risk of blood clots.

diet

Diet will depend on your medical condition.

 notify our office if

You or a family member has symptoms of shock or observe them in someone else. Call 911 immediately. This is a life-threatening emergency!

Special Notes: