In cases of severe injury, is it necessary to treat for physical shock even if shock symptoms are not visible?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only if symptoms appear
• D. Never

Answer: (A)

In a severe injury, you treat for shock from the start because shock can develop even when you don’t see obvious symptoms yet. Shock means the body's tissues aren’t getting enough blood flow, which can quickly lead to organ damage. People can compensate for a while, so skin color, pulse, or breathing may appear normal at first, but that doesn’t mean the danger isn’t there. Early intervention helps prevent deterioration and buys time for professional care.

Act as if shock is present: call for help, keep the person lying flat, and, if there’s no potential spinal injury, raise the legs slightly to improve blood flow. Keep them warm with a blanket, control any bleeding with direct pressure, and monitor breathing and consciousness. Do not give food or drink and minimize movement until help arrives.