What is the first step to take when assisting a casualty in shock?

The first step in assisting a casualty who is in shock is to keep them calm and still. This is crucial because shock can lead to a rapid decline in the casualty's condition, and moving them around or causing unnecessary stress can exacerbate the situation. Keeping the person calm helps to stabilize their heart rate and blood pressure, which may have been compromised due to shock. Ensuring they remain still also minimizes the risk of additional injury or complications.

In addition to maintaining calmness, it is vital to monitor the casualty’s state and provide reassurance, as fear and anxiety can worsen their condition. The focus at this stage is to manage the shock rather than rushing into other potentially more invasive actions.

While other steps, such as checking the pulse and breathing or ensuring the casualty is in a cooler environment, are important in managing overall care, they are not the immediate priority compared to ensuring that the casualty remains calm and still. Immediate intervention that respects the casualty's condition is essential for the effective management of shock.