At the ED, the doctor will perform a thorough physical exam to assess potential external and internal damage. Potential tests include:. Not every person who experiences electric shock needs to visit the emergency department ED. Follow this advice:. Electric shocks can cause injuries that are not always visible. Depending on how high the voltage was, the injury may be fatal. However, if a person survives the initial electrocution, a person should seek medical attention to ensure that no injuries have occurred.
Electric shocks and the injuries they can cause range from minor to severe. Many electric shocks occur in the home, so check household appliances regularly for signs of damage. People working in environments during the installation of electrical systems should take particular care and always follow safety regulations.
If a person has experienced a severe electric shock, administer first aid if it is safe to do so and call A coma is a deep state of unconsciousness. It can result from an injury or illness. It can last for a few days, but sometimes the person does not wake…. A feeling of tingling in the feet or hands can have a variety of causes.
Many are related to peripheral neuropathy or nerve damage, but others include…. Knowing the steps of CPR can help save a person's life. In this article, we look at CPR steps, including how to prepare, when to use it, and which…. First aid is a way of preparing an individual to respond to emergency situations quickly. Administering first aid techniques before medical assistance…. Here, learn to recognize a heart attack and what to do next. We also describe treatment and recovery and provide tips for prevention.
What to know about an electric shock. Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. What is it? Internal damage may be much more serious than the external injuries suggest.
Internal burns often have serious consequences: scarring, amputation, loss of function, loss of sensation and even death. For example, if a lot of tissue is destroyed, the large amount of waste generated can cause serious kidney or blood circulation disorders. Nerves are tissue that offers very little resistance to the passage of an electric current. When nerves are affected by an electric shock, the consequences include pain, tingling, numbness, weakness or difficulty moving a limb.
These effects may clear up with time or be permanent. Electric injury can also affect the central nervous system. When a shock occurs, the victim may be dazed or may experience amnesia, seizure or respiratory arrest.
Long-term damage to the nerves and the brain will depend on the extent of the injuries and may develop up to several months after the shock. This type of damage can also cause psychiatric disorders. Other disorders can appear in the weeks or months following the shock, depending on which organs the current passed through.
For example, if the current passed through the eyes, cataracts may develop over time. The possible consequences of an electric shock on the body The human body is a good conductor of electricity.
How to help a victim of electric shock The first thing you must do is disconnect the power supply. It may be necessary to commence cardiopulmonary resuscitation CPR. Call triple zero for an ambulance. If their breathing is steady and they are responsive, attend to their injuries. Simple cling wrap found in most kitchens is very suitable to cover burns as long as it is not applied tightly.
Never put ointments or oils onto burns. If the person has fallen from a height, try not to move them unnecessarily in case they have spinal injuries.
Only move them if there is a chance of further danger from the environment such as falling objects. Talk calmly and reassuringly to the person. Downed powerlines Sometimes, powerlines are downed in car accidents. Safety tips around the home You can reduce the risk of electric shock in your home by taking a few precautions, including: Always hire a licensed electrician for all wiring jobs.
Keep electrical appliances away from wet areas. Have safety switches installed by an electrician. Buy portable power boards with built-in safety switches. Insert safety plugs into power points not in use to stop children from inserting objects into them.
How a safety switch works A safety switch, or residual current device, is designed to save lives by monitoring power flow and making sure the flow is even. Where to get help In an emergency, call triple zero Give feedback about this page. Was this page helpful? Yes No. View all safety. Related information. Content disclaimer Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Reviewed on:
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