What treatment should be carried out for electric shock after the patient has been disconnected from electric contact?
- Artificial respiration should be instituted as soon as possible.
- The patient should be kept quiet and warm and supplied with oxygen if this is available.
- The burn area, which is often present at the site of contact, must be treated in the same manner as any burn.
- There may or may not be loss of consciousness.
- The skin become a dull gray color and is cold and clammy to the touch.
- The patient’s body is covered with a fine perspiration.
- The pulse is weak and rapid.
- The pupils of the eyes are dilated.
- Respirations are rapid and shallow.
- The patient is apprehensive and complains of weakness and thirst.
- Place the patient on his back with his feet higher than his head.
- If there is any active bleeding contributing toward the shock, it should be stopped.
- The patient should kept warm. Supply him with adequate belts or other covering.
- If there is severe pain that can be relived by the first–aider, this should be done immediately.
- Pain is one of the strongest contributors toward the development of shock. If a fracture is present, it should be splinted.
- If it can be determined that there is no injury or wound to the abdomen, the patient may be given warm fluids to drink.
- The patient should be transported to the hospital as soon as possible.
No. In the time it takes to obtain tea or coffee, the patient should really have had provisions made for transportation to a hospital where specific treatment can be instituted. Alcohol be given as a stimulant to patients who are in shock. This will only serve ultimately to increase the state of shock.
Should alcohol be given as a stimulant to patients who are in shock?
No. This will only serve ultimately to increase the state of shock.