Electric shock is a life-threatening condition that can occur due to leakage current in outlets and electrical appliances, damaged cables, or breaks in power transmission lines. In its simplest terms, it can be defined as the passage of electric current through the body. The resulting condition from an electric shock varies depending on the intensity and magnitude of the current, as well as the duration of exposure. The damage to the organs exposed to the electric current also differs. For example, the effect of electric current passing through the heart and brain may not be the same as the effect of electric current passing through a finger. High electric current passing through the heart and brain is often fatal. Exposure to currents of 50 mA and above can result in death.
First Aid in Electric Shock
In case of electric shock, the contact between the victim and the current must be cut off. For this, the circuit breaker should be immediately turned off. If the electricity cannot be cut off from the breaker, the victim must be moved away from the electrical current using a non-conductive material. The basic principle in first aid is not to put our own lives in danger while helping the victim, as an incorrect action can cause us to also be subjected to the electric current like the victim. The victim, once removed from the electrical current, must be taken to the hospital as soon as possible.
