<--back to table of contents
 

 

Shock

Inclusion Criteria: Any patient experiencing signs and symptoms consistent with shock. Refer also to Trauma, specific arrhythmia, and Allergic Reaction guidelines.

          Basic Level

  1. Assess and support ABCs.

  2. Initiate spinal movement restrictions, if needed. Place patient supine and elevate legs, unless contraindicated.

  3. Control any obvious external bleeding.

  4. Cover the patient to avoid heat loss. Do not over bundle.

  5. Administer oxygen via non-rebreather mask at 10-15 lpm or via BVM.

  6. Begin transport at the earliest possible moment.


    Advanced Level

  7. Apply ECG, SpO2 and EtCO2 monitors.

  8. Establish one large bore IV and infuse normal saline with the following guidelines

    Hypovolemic Shock

    Adult

    • Administer 250 ml boluses as needed to maintain radial pulses (do not exceed systolic BP of 90 mmHg)
    • Examine area of controlled hemorrhage frequently to determine that bleeding remains controlled.

    Pediatric

    • Administer 20 ml/kg bolus
    • Repeat once if systolic pressure not above 70 mmHg
    • If the patient is unconscious, consider the use of an IO infusion early.


    Cardiogenic Shock - Assure heart rate and rhythm are adequate, then:

    Adult

    • Infuse a single 250 ml bolus unless pulmonary edema is present.
    • Contact BioTel for vasopressor

    Pediatric

    • Run fluid at TKO rate.
    • Contact BioTel for vasopressor


    All Other Forms of Shock

    Adult

    • Infuse 250 ml boluses as needed titrating to a systolic B/P of 90 mmHg
    • Do not exceed 1,000 ml under standing orders

    Pediatric

    • Infuse bolus of 20 ml/kg.
    • Repeat once if systolic pressure not above 70 mm Hg.
    • If the patient is unconscious, consider the use of an IO infusion early.

  9. Monitor vital signs and neurological status during transport.

  10. For additional patient care considerations not covered under standing orders, consult BioTel.

 

<--back to table of contents