Shock may quickly occur after a sudden illness or injury. When the body loses too much blood or fluid, there is no longer enough fluid in the body to carry enough blood to the vital organs.

A child may be in shock if one or more of the following signs are present:

• Passing out (losing consciousness).
• Acting confused. The child may not know where he or she is.
• Being very sleepy or hard to wake up.
• Breathing fast.
• Not responding to being touched or talked to.

Also, a child in shock has a weak, rapid heart rate and low blood pressure.

Shock is a life-threatening condition. Immediate medical care is required any time shock is suspected.