# Electric shock

Even for a mild electric shock, encourage the patient to seek medical aid for assessment of potential effects on the heart. Signs and symptoms

difficulty in breathing or no breathing at all

a weak, erratic pulse or no pulse at all

burns, particularly entry and exit burns

loss of consciousness

cardiac arrest

Downed power lines

Remain at least 6 metres from any cable.

DO NOT attempt to remove the cable.

If a vehicle is being touched by a high voltage cable, DO NOT go near the vehicle or try to remove the patient from the vehicle.

Advise the patient not to move.

What to do 1 Check for danger to yourself, bystanders and the patient. 2 Switch off power, if possible, before trying to help the patient. 3 If the patient is in contact with high voltage lines, do not approach, but wait until power is disconnected by authorised electrical personnel. 4 If power cannot be switched off quickly, remove the patient from the electrical supply without directly touching them. Use a non-conductive, dry material (eg a dry wooden broom handle). 5 Follow DRSABCD. Call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. 6 Hold any burnt area under cool running water for 20 minutes. 7 Remove jewellery and clothing from burnt areas, unless stuck to the burn. 8 Cover the burnt area with a loose and light nonstick dressing, preferably clean, dry, non-fluffy material such as plastic cling film. 9 Seek medical aid.