What position is recommended for someone in shock?

What position is recommended for someone in shock?

• A. Sit upright with legs dangling.
• B. Lie down with feet elevated.
• C. Lie on stomach with head turned to the side.
• D. Stand and move around gently.

Answer: (B)

When someone is in shock, the priority is to maintain blood flow to vital organs. Lying them flat with the legs elevated uses gravity to help return blood to the heart, improving circulation and stabilizing blood pressure. This position also reduces the strain on the heart and helps keep the brain and other organs perfused. Elevate the legs a short distance (about 12 inches or 30 cm) unless you have a reason not to, such as a possible spinal injury, leg or back injury, or if the person is vomiting or has trouble breathing. In those cases, keep them comfortable and monitor breathing while waiting for emergency help. Never give food or drink, and loosen tight clothing to aid breathing. Sitting upright with legs dangling can cause blood to pool in the legs, worsening the drop in blood pressure. Lying on the stomach or standing and moving around would not support circulation and can hinder breathing or circulation further.

When someone is in shock, the priority is to maintain blood flow to vital organs. Lying them flat with the legs elevated uses gravity to help return blood to the heart, improving circulation and stabilizing blood pressure. This position also reduces the strain on the heart and helps keep the brain and other organs perfused.

Elevate the legs a short distance (about 12 inches or 30 cm) unless you have a reason not to, such as a possible spinal injury, leg or back injury, or if the person is vomiting or has trouble breathing. In those cases, keep them comfortable and monitor breathing while waiting for emergency help. Never give food or drink, and loosen tight clothing to aid breathing.

Sitting upright with legs dangling can cause blood to pool in the legs, worsening the drop in blood pressure. Lying on the stomach or standing and moving around would not support circulation and can hinder breathing or circulation further.