If you or someone around you gets electrocuted, take the right steps immediately. Take first aid training and keep a basic medical kit in your home. Remember, a little understanding can save someone's life.
First Aid Kit After Electric Shock: If someone suddenly gets an electric shock, it is important to take the right steps immediately instead of panicking, because electric current can cause serious damage to the body parts, and sometimes even be life threatening. Being stuck in high voltage or current for a long time can cause conditions like heart beat, breathing stoppage or burns. Therefore, first aid given at the right time can save lives.
If a person is in the grip of current, touching him directly can be dangerous. First of all, turn off the main power switch or take him away from the power source with a wooden stick or plastic object. Make sure that you yourself are not wet nor are you touching any metal or wet object. Once the person is separated from the current, check his condition, whether he is conscious or not, whether he is breathing or not.
What to do if you are unconscious
If the person is unconscious and not breathing, start CPR immediately. If you do not know CPR, ask someone nearby for help and call an ambulance. It is very important to keep the heart and breathing functioning. Keep giving basic first aid until the medical team arrives.
What if the body is burnt?
Dr Himanshu Sharma of the Burns and Surgery Department at Safdarjung Hospital says that the skin can burn due to electric shock. In such a case, put clean water on the burnt area but do not use home remedies like ice or toothpaste. Use a clean and dry cloth to cover the burn. If the pain or swelling is severe, then doctor's advice is necessary.
What should be in a first aid kit in case of an electric shock?
- Insulated gloves (Rubber gloves)
- CPR face shield or mask
- Gauze pads and sterilized bandages - to cover wounds
- Antiseptic solution or wipes
- Burn cream or gel – to reduce irritation
- Digital thermometer and blood pressure monitor (if possible)
- Emergency contact list and first aid manual
Why is it important to see a doctor after an electric shock
Electric shock can not only damage the external organs but also the internal organs. It is possible that the heartbeat may get disturbed, muscles may get irritated or the nervous system may get affected. Sometimes the initial symptoms may seem mild but the condition may worsen after a few hours. Therefore, even if the person looks fine after getting electrocuted, it is important to get a medical checkup done once.
