Which action is most appropriate to address suspected shock while EMS is en route?

Which action is most appropriate to address suspected shock while EMS is en route?

• A. Elevate the athlete's legs
• B. Maintain the athlete's body temperature
• C. Elevate the athlete's affected arm
• D. Apply a tourniquet

Answer: (B)

Maintaining the athlete’s body temperature is the best action because preventing heat loss helps preserve vital organ perfusion while EMS is en route. In shock, the body already struggles to circulate enough blood to tissues, and cold exposure can worsen metabolic and circulatory problems, so keeping the person warm with a blanket or dry clothing supports stabilize until professional care arrives. Elevating the legs might be taught in some scenarios to aid venous return, but it can be unsafe if spinal, head, or abdominal injuries are possible, so it’s not the universally appropriate step. Elevating an affected arm or applying a tourniquet does not address shock and is not indicated here.

Maintaining the athlete’s body temperature is the best action because preventing heat loss helps preserve vital organ perfusion while EMS is en route. In shock, the body already struggles to circulate enough blood to tissues, and cold exposure can worsen metabolic and circulatory problems, so keeping the person warm with a blanket or dry clothing supports stabilize until professional care arrives. Elevating the legs might be taught in some scenarios to aid venous return, but it can be unsafe if spinal, head, or abdominal injuries are possible, so it’s not the universally appropriate step. Elevating an affected arm or applying a tourniquet does not address shock and is not indicated here.