Electrical injuries hurt and scar the body in many ways that may not be apparent initially. When the electrical current passes through the body, it can cause skin burns, damage to the internal organs and cardiac arrhythmias. Much of the human body requires electric pulses to function normally, so electrical injuries can disrupt those functions and result in an emergency situation.
There are around 30,000 or more nonfatal shock injuries each year in the United States. Burn units take in around 5 percent of their admissions as electrical burn patients.
The treatment for these injuries starts with shutting off the current. The sooner this happens, the better. It may be necessary to resuscitate the patient, because the electrical current has the potential to stop or alter the heart’s rhythm. The heart may need to be monitored for six to 12 hours post injury to make sure it is working correctly again.
Wound care is another factor in recovery. While the external wounds may not be severe, internal burns and issues can arise from the electrical current. Analgesia should also be treated as soon as possible.
With so much to think about, compensation for your injuries should be the last thing you have to worry about. Your workers’ compensation should kick in to help you get the care you need and the compensation necessary when you’re off work. Our website has more information on workers’ compensation and workplace accidents, so you have somewhere to turn for the facts. With the right support, you can be compensated and focus on recovery.
