How should you position a victim in shock?

How should you position a victim in shock?

• A. Keep the victim flat on their back and elevate their legs 1-1 ½ feet above their head
• B. Sit the victim up
• C. Stand the victim upright
• D. Place the victim on their stomach

Answer: (A)

When someone is in shock, their circulation drops and their organs aren’t getting enough oxygen. Positioning aims to boost blood flow back toward the heart and brain. Lying the person flat on their back and elevating the legs about 12–18 inches helps gravity return more blood to the core, which can help stabilize blood pressure and improve perfusion while you seek more advanced care. Avoid other positions because sitting up, standing, or lying on the stomach can hinder blood flow to the brain and chest, potentially making shock worse or compromising breathing. Keep the person still if there’s any risk of spinal injury, monitor their breathing and level of consciousness, call for emergency help, and keep them warm. Do not give food or drink.

When someone is in shock, their circulation drops and their organs aren’t getting enough oxygen. Positioning aims to boost blood flow back toward the heart and brain. Lying the person flat on their back and elevating the legs about 12–18 inches helps gravity return more blood to the core, which can help stabilize blood pressure and improve perfusion while you seek more advanced care.

Avoid other positions because sitting up, standing, or lying on the stomach can hinder blood flow to the brain and chest, potentially making shock worse or compromising breathing. Keep the person still if there’s any risk of spinal injury, monitor their breathing and level of consciousness, call for emergency help, and keep them warm. Do not give food or drink.