How high should you elevate the feet and legs of a shock victim if it does not cause pain?

When treating a shock victim, elevating the feet and legs can help increase blood flow to vital organs and improve circulation. The recommended elevation is around 12 inches. This height is generally considered appropriate because it allows for effective blood return to the heart without causing discomfort or additional strain to the victim. Elevating the legs by this amount can help in stabilizing their condition while waiting for professional medical assistance to arrive.

Elevating the limbs too high, such as at 18 or 24 inches, may lead to complications, especially if the victim experiences discomfort or exacerbates any underlying injuries. Elevation of 6 inches may not be sufficient to achieve the desired effect of aiding circulation. Therefore, 12 inches strikes the right balance for effective first aid in shock management.