Quick Answers
Electrocution can be life-threatening, so it’s critical to act fast if someone is electrocuted. Here are some quick answers on reviving an electrocuted person:
– Call 911 immediately – CPR may be required to revive the person
– Turn off the power source before approaching the person – Don’t risk electrocuting yourself
– Check breathing and pulse – If absent, begin CPR focusing on chest compressions
– If breathing, place in recovery position – Keep airway clear
– Treat burns and other injuries once the person is stable
– Use an AED if available – It can help restore normal heart rhythm
Understanding Electrocution
Electrocution occurs when a person comes into contact with a live electrical current and experiences electric shock. This can happen by directly touching exposed wiring or other energized equipment or by touching something that is energized like a faulty appliance. The seriousness of injury depends on the strength of the current, length of contact, and path it takes through the body.
Electrical currents as small as 30 milliamps can cause respiratory or heart paralysis if shock lasts longer than a few seconds. Any amount over 200 milliamps is potentially fatal.
When electrocuted, most people first experience pain and muscle contractions from current flowing through tissues. Very strong currents can cause immediate cardiac arrest or paralysis. Burns may also occur at point of contact.
After the shock, heart rhythm disturbances like ventricular fibrillation often occur. This causes rapid uncoordinated contractions of heart muscle, preventing proper pumping of blood. The result is cardiac arrest if not treated immediately.
Effects of Electrical Shock
| Current Level | Physiological Effect |
|---|---|
| 1 mA | Perception threshold. Slight tingling sensation. |
| 5 mA | Slight shock felt. Not painful but disturbing. |
| 10-25 mA | Shock definitely painful. Individual can let go but strong involuntary reactions to shock. |
| 25-40 mA | Painful shocks. Loss of muscular control. Can’t let go of source. |
| 50-150 mA | Extreme pain, respiratory arrest, severe muscular contractions. Death possible. |
| 1,000-4,300 mA | Rhythmic pumping action of the heart ceases. Muscular contraction and nerve damage occur. Death likely. |
As you can see from the table, even small currents can be extremely dangerous and potentially lethal. The risk increases exponentially as current levels rise over 25 mA.
Assessing the Victim
If you come across someone who has been electrocuted, it is essential to quickly assess their condition while taking precautions not to endanger yourself. Follow these steps:
1. Turn Off Power Source
Before approaching the electrocuted person, turn off the source of electricity if possible. This may involve unplugging equipment, turning off a breaker, or shutting off a main switch. Don’t attempt to remove wires directly from the victim as you may be shocked yourself.
2. Evaluate Breathing and Circulation
Once power is off, immediately check for unresponsiveness and absence of normal breathing. Listen for breathing sounds and observe the chest. Feel for a carotid pulse at the side of the neck. Skin may be hot or burned at the point of electric contact.
3. Call Emergency Medical Services
Have someone call 911 or emergency medical services right away. Medical personnel can provide oxygen, monitor heart rhythm, treat burns, and transport to the hospital. Provide details on the nature of the incident and injuries.
4. Begin CPR if Needed
If the person is not breathing and does not have a pulse, begin CPR immediately. Tilt head back to open the airway. Give two rescue breaths, watching for chest to rise. If breaths don’t go in, reposition airway. Then begin chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute until help arrives.
5. Use AED if Available
Apply an automated external defibrillator (AED) as soon as possible if one is available. An AED can analyze heart rhythms and deliver an electric shock to help restore normal rhythms in cardiac arrest. Follow voice prompts providing step-by-step instructions.
6. Treat Burns
Once victim is stable, treat any burns by running under cool water for 10-15 minutes. Apply a sterile dressing. Don’t use ice. Remove any jewelry near burned areas but don’t remove pieces that are adhered to skin.
7. Monitor Airway
Monitor breathing carefully and watch for vomiting, which can block the airway. Turn an unconscious person on their side to prevent choking on vomit or saliva.
CPR Techniques for Electrocution
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is essential for reviving someone in cardiac arrest from electrocution. Follow American Heart Association guidelines:
Chest Compressions
– Place heel of one hand on center of chest between nipples. Place other hand directly on top.
– Keep arms straight and shoulders directly over hands.
– Press straight down 2 inches at rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
– Allow chest to fully recoil between compressions.
– Rotate person providing compressions every 2 minutes to avoid fatigue.
Rescue Breaths
– Tilt head back, lift chin, pinch nose shut.
– Seal your lips tight over their mouth and give 1-second rescue breath to make chest rise.
– Give second breath. Each breath should take 1 second.
– Continue with 30 compressions and 2 breaths at a ratio of 30:2.
– If breaths don’t go in, reposition head and try again.
Using an AED
– Turn on automated external defibrillator (AED) and attach pads as pictured on device.
– Ensure others are clear before shocking by saying “Clear!”
– Push button to deliver shock based on AED prompts.
– Continue CPR starting with compressions after each shock delivered.
Recovery Position
– Once patient is breathing, place in recovery position to keep airway clear.
– Place arm nearest you at right angle and roll them toward you onto their side.
– Tilt head back and tuck hand under cheek to keep airway open.
– Monitor breathing closely until emergency responders arrive.
Key Points in Reviving Electrocution Victims
Here are some key points to remember when trying to revive someone who has been electrocuted:
– Act immediately but do not endanger yourself. Turn off power first.
– Check breathing and pulse. Call 911. Begin CPR if needed.
– Use AED as soon as possible if available. Follow device prompts.
– Provide 2 rescue breaths for every 30 chest compressions during CPR.
– Treat any burns by cooling skin. Don’t use ice.
– Monitor airway closely and roll victim on side if breathing.
– Continue CPR until paramedics arrive and take over treatment.
Preventing Electrocution Accidents
While knowledge of reviving electrocution victims is useful, prevention should be the primary goal. Follow good safety practices to avoid electrical accidents:
In the Home
– Use GFCI outlets near water sources like kitchens and bathrooms.
– Avoid overloading outlets.
– Ensure appliances and cords are in good condition.
– Don’t use electrical items near water.
– Use caution with hand tools that could contact hidden wires.
– Keep electric panels clear with 3-foot access space.
– Hire a qualified electrician for any electrical work.
At Work
– Follow lockout/tagout procedures before equipment maintenance.
– Wear rubber insulating gloves and mats for electrical work.
– Use fiberglass ladders when working near overhead wires.
– Unplug equipment by grasp plug rather than cord.
– Replace frayed cords immediately.
– Report any shocking sensations or sparks from equipment.
– Post electrical hazard signage on high voltage areas.
Outdoors
– Assume all downed power lines are energized and dangerous. Stay away.
– Never raise any object near overhead power lines.
– Only use electrical devices designed for outdoor use.
– Be aware of underground utilities before digging.
– Never touch a person in contact with a live wire. Turn off power first.
– Avoid open areas during storms with lightning strikes.
Following basic electrical safety principles can help prevent most electrocution hazards. But being prepared to act quickly in an emergency by knowing first aid can help save lives if an accident does occur.
Conclusion
Electrocution can happen rapidly, so fast response is critical in order to revive victims and prevent permanent injury or death. Crucial steps include cutting power, calling 911, starting CPR if needed, using an AED if available, monitoring breathing closely, and continuing care until EMTs arrive. Preventative measures like safety training, good housekeeping, maintenance programs, and proper use of electrical gear can help reduce risk. Understanding the dangers of electricity and being prepared with emergency response skills allows you to take action quickly if someone needs reviving after electrocution.