What should you do if a patient is in shock?

When a patient is in shock, it is essential to implement immediate first-aid measures to optimize their chances of recovery. Laying the patient flat and elevating their legs helps promote blood flow to vital organs. This position encourages blood return to the heart, which can counteract the diminished circulation commonly associated with shock. Elevating the legs can enhance perfusion and stabilize the patient’s condition until medical help arrives.

The other options do not effectively address the critical need for maintaining blood flow to the organs. Keeping the patient sitting up can hinder blood circulation when the person may need to minimize the strain on the heart. Offering food and drink could lead to complications, especially if the patient's condition warrants immediate medical intervention, and they might be unable to swallow properly. Leaving the patient alone can also exacerbate their condition due to increased anxiety, which could lead to further deterioration. Thus, laying the patient flat and elevating their legs is the key first-response action in this situation.