TOPIC OVERVIEW .
Shock is a killer and from the last lesson we can summarise that shock can be caused by anything that reduces the flow of blood, such as:
- Severe internal or external bleeding
- Heart problems, such as a heart attack, or heart failure
- Loss of body fluids, from dehydration, diarrhoea, vomiting, or burns
- Severe allergic reactions and overwhelming infection (septic shock)
- Spinal cord injury.
- Pale skin, which may be cold and clammy
- Sweating
- Fast pulse - as shock gets worse
- Fast, shallow breathing
- A weak pulse
- Grey blue skin, especially inside the lips
- Nausea and possible vomiting - as the brains oxygen supply decreases
- Restlessness and aggressive behaviour
- Yawning and gasping for air
- The casualty could become unresponsive.
OBJECTIVES .
In this video we show you what to look for if your baby has shock and what to do. Shock (not to be confused with emotional shock) is a life-threatening condition, which happens when the important organs in the body only get a poor supply of blood and oxygen.
REQUIRED MATERIALS .
Students require a file and/or folder, pen and paper and this will form the basis of the student's "Best Book".
CONTENT (LESSON BODY) .
ASSESSMENT .
All NPF officers should learn, practice and understand the content of this video.
The assessment, which will be undertaken, is both a written and practical test with a final exam.
The assessment, which will be undertaken, is both a written and practical test with a final exam.
SUMMARY & TAKEAWAY .
- Call or emergency help and say you think your child is unwell and in shock. Explain what you think caused it (such as bleeding, diarrhoea, vomiting or an allergic reaction).
- Try to reverse any possible cause of the shock that you can see, such as severe bleeding, encourage fluids in dehydration or treat serious burns.
- If you have a young baby, cradle them in your arms. Older children can be lain down with their feet elevated and supported on something like a cushion. Do not leave them unattended.
- Loosen any tight clothing around their neck, chest and waist.
- Fear and pain can make shock worse, so it’s important to keep the baby comfortable, and calm.
- Keep the baby warm – cover them with a blanket.
- Keep checking their breathing, pulse and whether they can respond to you.
- If they become unresponsive at any point, open their airway, check their breathing, and prepare to treat a baby who is unresponsive (CPR).
LOOK FORWARD TO .
How to treat a baby after an electric shock.