Shock Part 3: Chapter 9

Body Functions…. 3 conditions are needed to maintain adequate blood flow in the body: The heart must be working well An adequate amount of oxygen-rich blood must be circulating in the body The blood vessels must be intact and able to adjust blood flow

What is Shock? A progressive condition in which the circulatory system fails to circulate oxygen-rich blood to all parts of the body. Vital organs begin to shut down

What Causes Shock? Severe injuries, involving rapid blood loss Any significant fluid loss Bleeding Vomiting Diarrhea

Domino Effect Severe bleeding Heart beats faster to compensate for lose of blood Rapid pulse = more blood lose =volume drop Increased workload for heart mean more oxygen needed = breathing becomes faster Blood vessels constrict to protect vital organs from blood loss = Pale, cool, moist skin Lack of O2 causes tissue death in the arms and legs Brain now sends signals to return blood to arms and legs Vital organs now are not receiving adequate O2 Heart beats faster to compensate Blood loss worsens Domino Effect

Common Types and Causes of Shock Anaphylactic Life-threatening allergic reaction to a substance May cause airway to swell, affecting ability to breathe Can occur from insect stings or from food and drugs

Occurs with heart attacks Cardiogenic Failure of the heart to effectively circulate blood to all parts of the body Occurs with heart attacks

Common Types (cont) Severe bleeding or loss of blood plasma Hypovolemic Severe bleeding or loss of blood plasma Occurs with internal or external wounds or burns or with severe fluid loss, as from vomiting and diarrhea

Common Types EX Spinal injury Neurogenic A disruption of the autonomic nervous system, which results in the blood vessels expanding and creating a drop in blood pressure Can be caused by fluid loss, trauma to the nervous system or emotional shock Fainting EX Spinal injury

One More… Septic Toxins caused by severe infection cause the blood vessels to dilate

Signs & Symptoms Restlessness or irritability Altered state of consciousness Pale or ashen, bluish, cool or moist skin Rapid breathing Rapid and weak pulse Excessive thirst Nausea or vomiting

Care for Shock Help the victim lie down on his or her back Elevate the legs about 12 inches to help blood circulate to the vital organs Do not elevate the legs if: Victim is nauseated or having trouble breathing You suspect a head, neck or back injuries or possible broken bones involving the hips or legs Moving causes more pain. If you are unsure of the victims condition or if it is painful for him or her to move, leave the victim lying flat

Care for Shock Monitor the victims breathing and consciousness Keep the victim from being chilled or overheated Make them as comfortable as possible Reassure the victim Control external bleeding DO NOT give the victim anything to eat or drink

Care for shock