16-9
MEASURING WITHOUT INSTRUMENTS-A
TEST FOR SHOCK
In some cases, rather than using instruments for specific tests, you can make
measurements without any instruments at all. Here are some examples from this
book:
• In a CHI LD-to-child activity, a group of children becomes the ‘measuring
instrument’ for testing hearing. See page 24-12.
• A simple test for dehydration is described on p. 11-9.
• A way to check for malnutrition using your fingers is explained on p. 25-15.
• Ways of checking for anemia are described on p. 25-18 and 25-19.
Here is a simple way of testing for shock without using instruments:
If you suspect a
person is in a state of
shock (very weak or
unconscious, with rapid
weak pulse and cool
sweaty skin), quickly
Squeeze one finger hard for a moment, and
then let go.
The moment you let go, the palm side of the
finger will look white. If it takes more than 3
seconds for the normal pink or reddish color
(blood) to return, the person is probably in
shock. (You can measure the 3 seconds by
quickly saying “Is he in shock?” 3 times.)
IN SHOCK
NOT IN SHOCK
This is a good test to do when a child is dehydrated and seems very weak. If the
child is in shock, provide emergency care (WTND, p. 77) and get medical help fast.