In an emergency, what should you do first for a patient experiencing shock?

In a situation where a patient is experiencing shock, the priority is to maintain their stability and prevent further distress. Keeping the patient still and calm is essential as it helps to minimize the strain on their body and reduces their anxiety, which can exacerbate their condition. Shock can lead to a state of panic, and by providing a calm environment, you can help lower their heart rate and improve their oxygen supply.

The other options do not address the immediate needs of a shocked patient. Providing food and drink could be dangerous, especially if the patient is in a severe state, as they may have difficulty swallowing. Checking their pulse is an important assessment but does not take immediate action to stabilize the patient. Administering pain relief may also be inappropriate without a thorough evaluation, as it could mask critical symptoms or complicate the patient's condition.

Therefore, the first step should always be to keep the patient still and calm, allowing for the next steps in care to be taken safely and effectively.