The volume of blood in an average adult is about 12 pints. The loss of one pint of blood does not produce shock in a healthy adult. In fact, one pint per donor is the amount collected by blood banks. The loss of two or more pints of blood can produce shock. This amount of blood can be lost as a result of injuries such as a fractured femur.
Shock deprives the body of sufficient blood to function normally.
As shock progresses, the body alters some of its functions in an attempt to maintain sufficient blood supply to its vital parts. Cold, clammy, sweaty and pale skin. Rapid, weak pulse. Increased capillary refill time. Nausea and vomiting.