First Aid For Electric Shock: Essential Steps You Must Know

Introduction

Receiving an electric shock can be a frightening and potentially serious situation. This occurs when an electric current passes through the body, often a result of accidental contact with live electrical sources like power lines, household appliances, or even lightning. The severity of an electric shock injury depends on various factors, including the voltage involved, the type of current, the overall health of the person affected, and how promptly treatment is given. Swift and effective first aid treatment for electric shock can significantly minimise the risk of severe complications and even death. So, understanding what to do in such a crisis is crucial.

What is an Electrical Shock?

An electrical shock is the body’s physical reaction to electrical currents passing through it. This can trigger a range of immediate effects such as burns, seizures, loss of consciousness, irregular heartbeat, headaches, and a tingling sensation. In more severe cases, an electric shock can result in more profound outcomes like placing a person into a coma, causing respiratory arrest or even cardiac arrest. That’s why knowing the right first aid for current shock can be a literal lifesaver. In our next section, we’ll explore these essential first aid steps in detail.

Common Causes of Electrical Shock

Understanding the common causes can help you take preventive measures. Here are some frequent causes of electrical shock:

• Faulty Outlets and Switches: Electrical shocks often occur from malfunctioning outlets or switches. Loose connections or damaged wiring can cause unstable currents, leading to a shock when you plug in appliances.
• Outdated Electrical Systems: Compared to the safety features of modern three-prong outlets, older ones lack grounding, making them more likely to cause electrical shocks.
• Faulty Appliances: If your appliances have damaged cords, frayed wiring, or internal issues, they can emit unstable electrical currents. This poses a shock hazard when these devices are used.
• Contact with Water: Water is highly conductive. Electricity in contact with water creates a dangerous environment, potentially causing severe shocks if a person is in or near the water.
• Accidental Contact with Live Wires: Touching live wires or other exposed electrical sources accidentally can result in shocks.
• Lightning Strikes: Natural events like lightning strikes can also cause shocks, sometimes even proving fatal.
• Mishandling Electrical Equipment: Improper use of devices, such as using them near water or without safety precautions, raises the risk of shock.
• Workplace Hazards: Many electrical shocks happen at work due to inadequate safety measures, like failure to follow Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures when handling electrical systems.

Symptoms of Electrical Shock Injuries

The symptoms associated with an electric shock injury can vary significantly depending on the intensity of the shock and the route it takes through the body. Here are a few common symptoms to look out for:

• Burns: They are often most severe at the points of contact with the electrical source and the ground, typically affecting the hands, feet, and head.
• Cardiac Issues: Electric shock can cause irregular heartbeat, cardiac arrest, or ventricular fibrillation – a rapid, ineffective heartbeat that can be fatal.
• Neurological Symptoms: Victims may exhibit confusion, memory loss, headaches, or seizures, indicating potential brain injuries.
• Muscle and Nerve Damage: Involuntary muscle contractions can lead to muscle pain, deformities at the point of contact, and nerve damage causing numbness or tingling.
• Respiratory Issues: The shock can lead to difficulty breathing or even respiratory failure, especially if it affects the muscles involved in breathing.
• Spinal Injuries: If the shock propels the victim or causes them to fall, there could be associated neck or back injuries.
• Secondary Injuries: Falls or other accidents resulting from the electrical shock can cause additional injuries.
• Long-term Effects: Some individuals may suffer from permanent effects like cataracts, chronic pain, or mental health issues following the incident.

First Aid for Electric Shock

Electric shock can be a life-threatening situation that requires immediate attention. Here are the steps to follow:

• Ensure Safety First: Before administering any aid, turn off the source of electricity or use a non-conductive object to move it away from the victim. Remember, never touch the victim directly if they’re still in contact with the electricity source.
• Check for Responsiveness and Breathing: Approach the victim carefully and see if they are conscious. Speak calmly to check their responsiveness. If there’s no response, call for assistance and check if their breathing is normal.
• Call Emergency Services: If the person loses consciousness, or if their breathing or heartbeat is abnormal, call emergency services immediately. In India, you can dial 108 or 112.
• Administer CPR if Necessary: If the victim isn’t breathing normally and is unresponsive, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Make sure to administer 100-120 chest compressions per minute and give two rescue breaths after every 30 compressions.
• Treat Burns and Injuries: Electric shocks often result in burns or other injuries. If there are electrical burns, cool the area with running water for about 20 minutes, then cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage or clean cloth. Never use a blanket or towel as they can stick to the burnt skin. Apply pressure and elevate any bleeding wounds.
• Monitor for Shock: While waiting for professional medical help, watch out for signs of shock like pale, cool skin, rapid breathing, and confusion. Make sure to keep the victim warm and comfortable.

Post-Incident Care

Surviving an electric shock doesn’t mean the danger is completely over. There can be hidden injuries and effects that might not be visible immediately.

• Importance of Medical Evaluation Even If the Victim Feels Fine: Even if the person appears to be unharmed, there could be internal injuries. It is crucial to consult a doctor.
• Possible Long-Term Effects of Electrical Shock: Electric shock can have lasting effects. Some victims may experience chronic pain, develop cataracts or struggle with anxiety and depression.
• Follow-Up Care and Rehabilitation: The victim may need additional treatment, such as wound care, physical therapy, and mental health support, depending on the shock’s severity. A tailored rehabilitation plan will be created, and recovery will require time and patience.

Prevention Tips

When it comes to electrical safety, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some crucial safety measures that can help prevent an electrical shock.

1) Safety Measures to Prevent Electrical Shocks

Here are some simple yet effective strategies to safeguard against electrical shocks:

• Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs): GFCIs should be installed in areas where water and electricity may come into contact, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor outlets. They automatically cut off power if an electrical imbalance is detected.
• Avoid Overloading Circuits: Avoid overloading outlets or power strips. Use only one high-wattage appliance per outlet to prevent overheating and fires.
• Inspect Electrical Cords and Appliances: Routinely check cords and appliances for frays, cracks, or other damage. Replace or repair any damaged equipment immediately.
• Use Proper Equipment: When using tools and appliances, make sure they are rated for the voltage and current they will be handling.
• Keep Electrical Devices Away from Water: Refrain from using electrical devices in wet areas and always keep them away from sinks, bathtubs, and swimming pools.
• Install Proper Lighting: Ensure that outdoor areas where electrical equipment might be used at night are well-lit to prevent accidents.

2) Importance of Regular Maintenance of Electrical Systems

Routine maintenance of electrical systems is critical in ensuring their safe operation.

• Schedule regular inspections by a qualified electrician to identify potential hazards, outdated wiring, or faulty equipment.
• If you have old or insufficient electrical systems, consider upgrading them to meet current safety standards and accommodate modern power needs.
• Regularly test smoke alarms and GFCIs to ensure they are functioning properly. Remember to replace batteries as needed.

3) Educating Family Members and Coworkers on Electrical Safety

Here are some steps you can take to educate your family members and coworkers:

• Conduct training sessions on electrical safety for family members and coworkers. Discuss the risks associated with electricity and the importance of following safety protocols.
• Educate everyone on what to do in case of an electrical shock, including how to call for help and perform basic first aid.
• Encourage safe practices, such as not using electrical devices with wet hands, avoiding makeshift repairs, and exercising caution around power lines.

Preventing electric shock injuries is not just about implementing safety measures but also about being aware and prepared. By following the above tips, you can ensure a safe environment at your home or workplace, significantly reducing the risk of electrical accidents. Remember, when dealing with any electrical issues, always prioritise safety over convenience. When in doubt, seek professional help immediately.

In an unfortunate event where these preventive measures fail, first aid treatment for electric shock can be lifesaving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)