You suspect that an injured person may be suffering from shock. What are the warning signs to look for?

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What is a shock?

Car accidents can result in severe injuries. While many of these injuries are obvious, such as fractures, burns, and spinal injury, others may be more difficult to detect. These other injuries may be severe, but their symptoms may be delayed. One example of this type of injury is shock. Shock happens when a person's organs lose blood supply. This lack of blood flow deprives one's organs of vital oxygen and needs immediate medical intervention.


What is the warning sign for shock?

When a person has been injured. They may be suffering from shock. The most common warning signs for shock after a car accident are: rapid pulse , pale gray skin, rapid shallow breathing, and sweating.


What signs of shock should you look for after a crash?

Immediately noticeable warning sign for shock may include any or all of the following:

- Skin getting cold and clammy

- Sweating excessively

- A quick pulse

- Pupils enlarged

- High blood pressure

- Breathing quickly and shallowly

- Weakness

- Chest ache

- Light skin tone

- Dizziness

- Consciousness loss

- Seizures

- Confusion or lack of reaction

- Vomiting or nausea

- Fear or agitation

The symptoms encountered will be determined by the victim's condition, injuries, and the circumstances of the incident. Following a car collision, shock is frequently accompanied by injuries such as significant bleeding, shattered bones, or spinal/back injuries.


What should I do when a person suffers from shock right after a collision?

If you come across an injured person who appears to be in shock, dial 911 or your local emergency number. In case the ambulance hasn’t come due to long distance or whatever reasons, below are some steps you could do to give the patient first aid:

- Lay the person down and slightly elevate their legs and feet, unless doing so would cause discomfort or severe harm.

- Maintain the person's position and do not move him or her unless absolutely required.

- Reassure the person.

- If the person shows no signs of life, such as breathing, coughing, moaning, or moving, begin CPR.

- To prevent chills, loosen tight clothing and, if necessary, cover the person with a blanket.

- Allow the person to eat or drink nothing.

- If you suspect the person is having an allergic response and have access to an epinephrine auto injector (EpiPen), use it as directed.