In the shock position, the victim lies

In the shock position, the victim lies

• A. lies on back with feet raised 8-12 inches
• B. lies on back with feet raised 2 inches
• C. on the back with head elevated
• D. sitting up

Answer: (A)

When a person is in shock, the goal is to improve blood flow to the heart and brain. Lying on the back with the feet raised about 8 to 12 inches uses gravity to push more blood back toward the heart, helping to increase venous return and stabilize circulation temporarily until help arrives. Elevating the legs this way is more effective than a small raise, head or chest elevation, or sitting up, which do not support blood flow to vital organs as well and can worsen the situation. This position is appropriate as long as there’s no risk of spinal injury or other contraindications and the person can breathe adequately.

When a person is in shock, the goal is to improve blood flow to the heart and brain. Lying on the back with the feet raised about 8 to 12 inches uses gravity to push more blood back toward the heart, helping to increase venous return and stabilize circulation temporarily until help arrives. Elevating the legs this way is more effective than a small raise, head or chest elevation, or sitting up, which do not support blood flow to vital organs as well and can worsen the situation. This position is appropriate as long as there’s no risk of spinal injury or other contraindications and the person can breathe adequately.