Electric Shock: First Aid

By Matt Unangst, 20 Feb 18:41

In all of those cartoons, an electric shock makes someone's hair stand on end, but the real life consequences of such an injury can be much worse. Here's how to reduce the risk of serious injury from an electric shock.

There are four primary factors in determining the severity of an electrical shock:
• the voltage
• how the current went through the body
• the victim’s general health
• the quickness of treatment

Symptoms to look for in figuring out the danger posed by an electric shock include:
• cardiac arrest
• heart arrhythmias
• respiratory problems or failure
• unconsciousness
• muscle pain
• muscle contractions
• seizures
• numbness and tingling
Call 911 if you see any of these symptoms in someone who has suffered an electrical shock.

If you have to call 911, you shouldn’t just sit around waiting for help to arrive. Make sure that the person is no longer in contact with whatever caused the shock. Turn off the source of the electricity, if possible, or move it away with a nonconductive object. Nonconductive objects are normally made or cardboard, plastic, wood, or rubber. Be very careful not to touch the person with your bare hands if he/she is still in contact with the electrical current, as you will conduct the current and suffer a shock yourself. Do not go near high voltage wires if they are still powered, even with a nonconductive object. Remain at least 20 feet away.

After the person is no longer in danger of suffering further shocks, check him/her for signs of consciousness. Begin CPR if he/she is not responsive and shows no signs of circulation. Lay the person down with the head lower than the torso and the legs elevated in order to prevent the onset of shock. Do not move anyone who has suffered an electrical injury unless the person is in immediate danger if not moved.

Tags: electric shock, first aid