First Aid for Electrical Shock
Electrical shock can cause serious internal and external injuries, including burns, nerve damage, heart irregularities, and organ failure. Quick and proper first aid is essential to minimize harm and prevent further injury.
Step-by-Step First Aid for Electrical Shock
1️⃣ Ensure Your Own Safety First 🚨
- DO NOT touch the person if they are still in contact with the electrical source.
- Turn off the power source if possible (unplug or switch off the circuit breaker).
- If you cannot turn off the power, use a non-conductive object (wood, plastic, rubber) to separate the person from the source.
2️⃣ Move the Person to Safety
- Once disconnected from the power source, carefully move the person away from danger.
- Do NOT move them if they have major injuries (except if in immediate danger).
3️⃣ Assess the Person’s Condition
- Check for responsiveness – Are they conscious or unconscious?
- Look for burns – Electrical burns may appear on entry and exit points.
- Check for other injuries – Fractures, head trauma, or irregular breathing may occur.
4️⃣ Treat Burns from Electrical Shock 🔥
- Cool the burned area – Run cool (not ice-cold) water over the burn for at least 10 minutes.
- Cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick dressing – Avoid adhesive bandages.
- Do NOT apply ointments, creams, or butter – These can trap heat and worsen the injury.
5️⃣ Monitor for Shock Symptoms ⚠️
Electrical shock can cause internal damage, even if there are no visible burns. Watch for:
✅ Pale, cool, or clammy skin
✅ Rapid, weak pulse
✅ Confusion or dizziness
✅ Shallow or irregular breathing
🔹 What to Do:
- Lay the person flat on their back if possible.
- Elevate the legs slightly (unless there are spinal injuries).
- Cover them with a blanket to keep warm.
- Keep them calm and reassured until help arrives.
6️⃣ Seek Immediate Medical Help 🚑
- Call 911 for any electrical shock, even if the person seems fine.
- Severe burns, unconsciousness, irregular heartbeat, or breathing difficulty require immediate medical attention.
- If in doubt, get medical evaluation, as internal injuries may not be immediately visible.
7️⃣ DO NOT Do the Following 🚫
❌ Do NOT use ice on burns – It can cause further skin damage.
❌ Do NOT touch the person until they are disconnected from the power source.
❌ Do NOT apply ointments, butter, or creams to burns.
❌ Do NOT give food or drink – They may have internal injuries.
❌ Do NOT move the person unnecessarily unless there is an immediate danger.
⚡ Electrical injuries can be unpredictable. Even if the person appears unharmed, they should still be evaluated by a medical professional. Always call 911 for any significant shock!
Would you like a visual guide or a training scenario for this? 🚑
