Pathways Contact PEIA Home Return to Index Shock Shock is an emergency condition. It occurs when the circulation system fails to send blood to all parts of the body. With shock, areas of the body are deprived of oxygen because blood flow or blood volume is too low to meet the body's needs. The result is damage to parts of the body such as the limbs, lungs, heart and brain.
First aid can help keep shock from getting worse.
Do First Aid Before Emergency Care for specific injury. Elevate head and shoulders or put victim in a half-sitting position to make it easier for him or her to breathe if no head, neck or spine injury. Continue to monitor breathing and pulse. Elevate the feet about 1 foot with a box or rolled blankets. This causes blood to flow from the legs to the head and vital organs in the body.