What should you do if a person is in shock?

When a person is in shock, the primary goal is to maintain their blood flow to vital organs and tissues. Laying the person down and elevating their legs is an effective measure because it can help improve circulation to the brain and heart by utilizing gravity to encourage blood flow back toward the core. This position can help stabilize the individual and counteract the low blood pressure commonly associated with shock.

In addition, this method is particularly appropriate if the individual has not suffered any suspected injuries that may necessitate avoiding movement or repositioning. Elevating the legs is a common practice in first aid for shock because it can enhance venous return and potentially improve the person's overall condition until professional medical help arrives.

In contrast to the correct response, keeping a person sitting up could cause discomfort and limit blood flow to vital areas, while moving them to a cooler environment could exacerbate their symptoms by inducing hypothermia, which is counterproductive in a state of shock. Providing food or drink can also be dangerous, as a person in shock may have altered consciousness and could be at risk of choking. Thus, the recommendation to lay the person down and elevate their legs is the safest and most effective action to take in this situation.