Electric shock is a serious and potentially deadly event. Electric shock can happen when electricity passes through the body. Such an event can cause internal damage, and burns and can even cause the heart to stop. Statistics show that about 1,000 deaths occur each year in the United States due to electrical injuries. Most of these happen at work or home.
Knowing first aid for electrical shock can save lives. Read on to learn about electric shock, its dangers, and how to provide first aid. We’ll also look at some interesting facts and numbers about electric shocks.
What Is An Electric Shock?
Electric shock occurs when a person touches an electrical energy source. This can be from:
- Faulty electrical appliances
- Exposed wires
- Lightning strikes
- Power lines
When a person or a worker receives an electric shock it can cause:
- Burns on the skin
- Damage to internal organs
- Muscle spasms
- Heart problems
- Breathing difficulties
The severity can depend on several factors. These include the voltage of the electricity, the path it takes through the body, how long the person was in contact with the electricity, and the person’s overall health.
What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Electric Shock?
Recognizing electric shock is crucial for quick action. Given below are some signs to look out for:
- Burns on the skin
- Muscle pain and contractions
- Seizures or shaking
- Confusion or loss of consciousness
- Difficulty breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
In severe cases, electric shock can cause cardiac arrest (when the heart stops beating) or respiratory failure (when breathing stops).
What Is the First Step for Responding to Electric Shock?
When you see someone who has had an electric shock, follow these steps:
- Check if the victim is still in contact with the source of the electric current. If so, do not touch them as you could get shocked too.
- Turn off the power source if possible.
- If you can’t turn off the power, use a non-conducting object like a wooden broom handle to move the person away from the source.
- Check if the person is responsive and breathing.
- Call for emergency help right away.
Remember: Your safety comes first. Don’t put yourself in danger while trying to help.
Read more: How do you perform CPR on a drowned person?
How To Provide Electrocution First Aid?
Once the person is away from the electrical source and you’ve called for help, you can start electric shock first aid:
- Check breathing and pulse:
• Look for chest movement
• Feel for breath on your cheek
• Check if they have a beating pulse - You must start first aid for an electrical shock if there’s no breathing or pulse. Start CPR as soon as possible:
• Perform rhythmic compressions in the center of the chest
• 100 to 120 pushes every minute is ideal.
• The chest must rise completely before each push - If the person is breathing:
• Put them in the recovery position (on their side with top leg and arm bent for support)
• Keep them warm with a blanket - Look for burns:
• Cover any burns with a clean, dry cloth
• Don’t use ointments or ice - Keep the person still:
• Move them only if they are in any danger
• Movement can worsen injuries - Stay with the person until help arrives
The success rate of electric shock resuscitation performed immediately after cardiac arrest is about 45%. This shows how important quick action is in saving lives.
Read More: The Main Objectives and Goals of First Aid Training
How To Treat Electrical Burns?
Electric shocks often cause burns. These can be more serious than they look because electricity can cause internal damage. Here’s how to treat electrical burns:
- Don’t touch the burn with your bare hands. You can use clean gloves.
- Do not take any stuck clothing off of the burns.
- Use a clean and dry cloth to cover the burns. A sterile bandage would be ideal.
- Don’t apply creams, ointments, or butter to the burn.
- Keep the burned area raised if possible to reduce swelling.
- Give the person small sips of water if they’re conscious and able to swallow.
Remember: All electrical burns should be checked by a doctor, even if they look minor.
How To Prevent Electric Shocks?
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some ways to prevent electric shocks:
- Keep electrical appliances away from water.
- Don’t use appliances with frayed cords.
- Teach children about electrical safety.
- Use childproof outlet covers.
- Don’t overload outlets with too many plugs.
- Be careful when using power tools.
- Stay away from power lines, especially during storms.
- Call professionals for electrical repairs.
Can Lightning Strikes Cause Electric Shock?
Lightning strikes are a special kind of electric shock. They’re less common but can be very dangerous. Here’s what to know:
- Lightning can strike even when the storm seems far away.
- If you hear thunder, go inside right away.
- Do not go near windows or doors during the storm.
- Don’t use corded phones or electrical appliances during a storm.
- Do not go outside immediately after the storm.
If someone is struck by lightning:
- Call for emergency help immediately.
- It’s safe to touch the person. They don’t carry an electrical charge.
- Check for breathing and pulse. Start CPR if needed.
- Look for burns and other injuries.
- Move the person to a safer place if possible.
Conclusion
Electric shock is a serious emergency that requires quick first aid for electrical shock. By understanding the dangers, knowing how to respond, and taking steps to prevent electrical accidents, we can keep ourselves and others safe. By being prepared knowing what to do after an electric shock on hand, you could save a life in case of an electric shock emergency.
