How to treat a person in shock

Although the general public may not be aware of it, shock is a highly dangerous and possibly life-threatening state that occurs after a traumatic event. Therefore, when dealing with a person who has gone into potential shock, is imperative to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A person in shock may experience agitation and aggravation, disorientation and bewilderment. They may also be drenched in cold sweat, pale, and having trouble taking a proper breath.

An important thing to know is that one should not rely on oneself to make sure that a shocked victim is out of the woods. It is best to take precautions and call for a trained professional. Both the police and the fire department are well-equipped to deal with this type of problem.

While waiting for professionals, it is helpful to try and lay the victim down on their back because in their confusion state could lead them into greater trouble, especially if there is an accident scene around them. Not only that, but they could also be experiencing some internal bleeding or difficulties which they are not aware of, and moving around would make it that much worse.

The next step would be to try and help the victim regain body heat. Feeling the warmth may have a somewhat soothing effect on the person, not to mention that an inadequate level of body heat could be very harmful by itself.

Another thing to try in order to calm the shock victim down is a relaxing, light conversation. Making sure not to mention the events that led up to the state of shock, having a positive attitude and not showing signs of distress might not be helpful for everyone, but it is definitely something that could avoid making matters worse.

A seemingly peculiar method in trying to help someone in shock is to raise their feet above their head. However, this position will relieve the possible nausea and improve circulation.

Finally, in such bsituations like that, the victim should keep an empty stomach in case they need any kind of surgery and also because eating or drinking could cause them physical discomfort.

As for the one assisting the shock victim, the best way to make them understand how they should behave is to think about those situations like emergency procedures in airplanes. The essential thing is to do is to make sure not to put oneself in any kind of risk, and only then should one try and help the victim.