Electrical Injuries

The passage of electrical current through the body may result in severe and sometimes fatal injuries. The electricity can cause quivering of the heart muscles or it can cause he heart to stop completely, which will result in a cessation of breathing.

SYMPTOMS - General symptoms of asphyxia but he casualty's face may be ashen because breathing and heartbeat have stopped simultaneously. - Deep contact burns may be present at points of entry and exit. - Symptoms and signs of shock. AIM Break the current or remove the casualty from the source if it is safe to do so. Arrange removal to hospital.

TREATMENT 1. If the casualty is unconscious, open the airway and check breathing. Complete the ABC of Resuscitation if required and place casualty in Recovery Position. 2. Treat any burns. Examine them carefully; they may be deeper than they appear at first. 3. Minimize Shock. 4. Arrange removal to hospital in all cases where the casualty has required resuscitation, was unconscous, sustained burns or developed any of symptoms and signs of shock.