Shock deprives the body's tissues of essential oxygenated blood and the results may be irreversible. Prompt treatment can prevent shock or minimize its effects. If so, assume severe shock. If none of the above signs of severe shock are confirmed, check for earlier stages of shock using the following steps.
Shock deprives blood flow to the brain and heart.
An increased heart rate is a sign that the body is trying to compensate for blood loss to vital organs. Assume the injured person's condition is worsening. If so, assume shock. If so, assume shock. Ask the injured person how he or she feels.