Electrical Burns
Deep tissue damage hidden beneath small surface wounds
Step by Step
Make sure the power source is off before touching the person. Call emergency services for any significant electrical injury. Small burns at the points where current entered and left the body can hide serious damage to deeper tissues. Check breathing and start CPR if needed. Cool the burns with cool running water if it is safe, then cover with cling film or a clean non fluffy dressing. Hospital assessment is needed for all high voltage, lightning, and significant electrical injuries regardless of how small the visible wounds are, because heart rhythm problems and internal damage may not be obvious at first.
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