First Aid for Electric Shock and Burns

This article describes the first aid treatment required for victims of electric shock and burns. This procedure aims to provide some relief to the victim before they can be taken to a hospital. The figure below depicts basic treatment for electric shock victims in a pictorial view.

First Aid Procedure For Extensively Burned and Broken Skin

• Cover the affected area with a clean sheet or cloth.
• Do not break blisters, remove tissue, remove adhered particles of clothing, or apply any salve or ointment.
• Treat the victim for shock as required.
• Arrange for transportation to a hospital as quickly as possible.
• If the victim’s arms or legs are affected, keep them elevated.
• If medical help will not be available within an hour and the victim is conscious and not vomiting, prepare a weak solution of salt and soda. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to each quart of tepid water. Allow the victim to sip slowly about 4 oz (half a glass) over a period of 15 minutes. Discontinue fluid intake if vomiting occurs. (Do not allow alcohol consumption.)

First Aid Procedure For Less Severe Burns (First- and Second-Degree)

• Apply cool (not ice-cold) compresses using the cleanest available cloth article.
• Do not break blisters, remove tissue, remove adhered particles of clothing, or apply salve or ointment.
• Apply a clean, dry dressing if necessary.
• Treat the victim for shock as required.
• Arrange for transportation to a hospital as quickly as possible.
• If the victim’s arms or legs are affected, keep them elevated.

For electric shock, the best first aid is prevention. In the event that an individual has sustained or is sustaining an electric shock at the workplace, several guidelines must be followed as directed by various health organizations.