From the Guidelines
Electrocution can cause a range of effects from mild to fatal, and immediate removal from the electrical source and prompt medical attention are crucial to prevent morbidity and mortality. The effects of electrical injury can vary widely, from an unpleasant tingling sensation to thermal burns, cardiopulmonary arrest, and death 1. Thermal burns may result from burning clothing or from electric current traversing a portion of the body, and cardiopulmonary arrest is the primary cause of immediate death from electrocution 1.
Immediate Effects
Immediate effects of electrocution include:
- Burns at entry and exit points
- Muscle contractions
- Respiratory arrest
- Cardiac arrhythmias, including ventricular fibrillation, which can lead to cardiac arrest 1 Neurological damage may occur due to the electrical current disrupting normal nerve function or from secondary trauma like falls.
Long-term Effects
Long-term effects can include:
- Memory problems
- Nerve damage
- Cataracts
- Kidney failure
- Psychological trauma
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment involves immediate removal from the electrical source (using non-conductive materials), CPR if needed, and prompt medical attention. Medical professionals will typically monitor cardiac function, treat burns, assess for internal injuries, and may administer medications like pain relievers or anti-arrhythmics as needed 1. Prevention is critical through proper electrical safety practices, use of ground fault circuit interrupters, and avoiding contact with electrical sources during storms or in wet conditions. Electricity causes harm by disrupting the body's natural electrical signals and causing tissue damage through heat generation as current passes through the body's resistance 1.
From the Research
Effects of Electrical Injury
The effects of electrical injury, also known as electrocution, can be severe and potentially life-threatening. Some of the possible effects include:
- Cardiac arrest and arrhythmias 2
- Respiratory failure 3
- Burns, including internal burns with necrosis of muscle tissue 3
- Injuries to the nerve system, including encephalopathy and psychological sequelae 3
- Spinal cord and peripheral nerve injury 3
- Renal failure 3
- Traumas caused by falls 3
- Pulmonary infiltrates and cerebellar hemorrhage 4
- Fractures, including fractures of the cervical vertebrae 4
Severity of Injury
The severity of the injury depends on several factors, including:
- Intensity of the electrical current 4
- Voltage of the source 4
- Resistance in the victim's body 4
- Duration of the contact 4
Treatment and Management
Treatment and management of electrical injuries can be complex and require a thorough clinical assessment to ascertain the path of current through the body and possible internal injury 2. Some of the possible treatments include: