EMTs and other first responders may be getting an old tool to use in a new way. A simple bag of ice water may be able to counteract shock.
Research reported at the Experimental Biology 2017 meeting demonstrated a simple way to prevent cardiovascular decompensation after significant blood loss. Even after bleeding stops, such blood loss may lead to shock, with a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Ice on the Face to Counteract Shock:
Applying a bag of ice water to the face prevented that precipitous drop in blood pressure. Of course, having a bag of ice water land on your face could create quite a different sort of shock!
The scientists tested their innovation on volunteers who spent time in a special chamber to mimic blood loss rather than on actual accident victims. Ice water on the face for fifteen minutes significantly improved blood pressure. This approach to counteract shock should be used only after bleeding has been stopped, of course. Otherwise, it could make matters worse.
Taking It to the Real World:
So far, the research has been limited to the laboratory. The ice-bag method will need to be tested in a clinical trial before it is put into practice.
