An electric shock occurs when an electrical current passes through the body, through direct contact with a live source or indirectly through a conductive material. These incidents are immediately life-threatening, as electricity can disrupt the body’s internal systems, particularly the heart and nervous function. The severity of injury depends on factors like the voltage, the current’s pathway through the body, and the duration of exposure. A rapid and correct response is necessary to minimize potential harm and improve the chances of survival for the victim.
Prioritizing Rescuer Safety and Disconnecting Power
The first step in responding to an electric shock is to ensure the safety of the rescuer and the surrounding area. Never touch a victim who is still in contact with a live electrical source, as the current can pass through the victim to the rescuer, creating a second casualty. This principle of scene safety must be established before any other action is taken.
The immediate priority is to disconnect the electrical energy source, which is the safest and most effective way to stop the current flow. This can be achieved by quickly turning off the main circuit breaker, fuse box, or wall switch, or by unplugging the appliance or cord from the outlet. Once the power is off, the risk of shock is removed, allowing for safe approach to the victim.
If the power source cannot be located quickly or safely shut off, the victim must be separated from the current using a non-conductive object. Appropriate materials include a dry wooden broom handle, a plastic pipe, or a cardboard item, as these materials do not conduct electricity. The rescuer should stand on a dry, insulating surface, like a rubber mat, and use the object to push or pull the victim away from the electrical source.
Immediate Assessment and Activating Emergency Services
Once the scene is secured and the victim is no longer in contact with electricity, the next step is a rapid assessment of their condition. The rescuer should gently tap the victim and loudly ask, “Are you okay?” to check for consciousness and responsiveness. If the victim does not respond, the rescuer must immediately check for signs of circulation, such as breathing or movement.
Emergency medical services (EMS) must be called immediately, either by the rescuer or by directing a bystander to call the local emergency number. The call for help should be initiated while the rescuer is performing the primary assessment, as time is a determining factor for survival. Providing the dispatcher with accurate information is necessary, including the exact location and the nature of the accident. This information should also include the victim’s current state, such as whether they are conscious, breathing, or have severe burns.
Providing Initial Stabilization and Care
After calling for professional help, providing stabilization while waiting for EMS to arrive is the focus. If the victim is unresponsive and not breathing normally, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) should be started immediately. Electrical current can cause the heart to stop or result in respiratory arrest. CPR involves alternating chest compressions and rescue breaths to maintain oxygen flow to the brain and organs until qualified personnel take over.
If the victim is conscious and breathing, the rescuer should keep them lying down and still, as sudden movements could worsen internal injuries. It is necessary to monitor the victim for signs of physiological shock, which is a condition of insufficient blood circulation distinct from the electrical event. This involves keeping the victim warm with a blanket or coat to help maintain body temperature.
Recognizing and Addressing Electrical Injuries
Electric shock can cause a variety of injuries, ranging from external burns to severe internal damage. The most visible injuries are electrical burns at the entry and exit points where the current passed through the body. The severity of external burns does not always reflect the extent of damage to internal tissues, which can be significant even with minor surface wounds.
A primary danger of electric shock is its effect on the heart, which can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias or cardiac arrest. The current’s passage through muscle tissue can also cause damage, which releases substances that may result in kidney failure. For any visible burns, the area can be covered with a sterile gauze bandage or a clean cloth, but a towel or blanket should not be used as the fibers may stick to the wound.
Assume that the victim may have sustained spinal or bone fractures, particularly if they were thrown or fell due to muscle spasms or loss of consciousness. Therefore, the victim should be moved as little as possible to prevent further injury to the neck or spine. Even if the victim appears unharmed after a minor shock, seeking medical evaluation is recommended to check for internal issues like heart irregularities that may not manifest until hours later.