22 May 2012
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Electric shock symptoms
Last Update: 26 Mar 2011 10:37 AM
Injuries can be caused when electric current passes through body. The source may be natural or man-made. The danger depends on how high the voltage is, how the current traveled through the body, the person's overall health and how quickly the person is treated.
Call for emergency medical assistance (dial 997) if any of these symptoms occur:
  • Unconsciousness
  • Cardiac arrest
  • Heart rhythm problems
  • Seizures
  • Respiratory failure
  • Muscle pain and contractions
  • Numbness and tingling 
 

What to do while waiting for medical help?

  • Do not attempt to move the victim from  source of current as touching the person may cause you to get shocked by the current as well.
  • Switch off the current source if possible otherwise, move the source using a nonconducting object like wooden stick. 
  • Prevent shock by laying the person down and, if possible, position the head slightly lower than the trunk, elevating the legs.
  • Check for breathing.
  • If there is no breathing, begin CPR. 
  • If the person is breathing, perform a physical examination.  
  • Treat for minor burns.



 

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This information is provided by the NGHA Content Advisory Board and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your health care provider.

 

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