An injured person with significant bleeding may be in shock. Shock is life-threatening, so the rescuer must immediately call EMS. If the person has lost a great deal of blood, they may experience:

• Light-headedness
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Palpitations
• Cold sweats
• Feeling faint or confused

If these symptoms are evident, the responder may try to elevate the lower extremities above the level of the heart. This maneuver should only be performed if there is no suspicion of a spinal injury or any gross deformities or fractures of the lower extremities. Shock is discussed further in the next chapter.

Save A Life Flowchart.