Emergency Care

Lifesaving care for electric shock

When an electric current travels through the body, electrical shock occurs. Electrical shock can damage internal organs, cause burns and even lead to cardiac arrest or death. Even a seemingly small electrical shock requires prompt evaluation and treatment.

The emergency department at Goshen Hospital assess injuries from electrical shock in Goshen, Indiana. For communities throughout Elkhart County, we provide skilled emergency care 24/7. With cardiac monitoring systems and advanced imaging, our emergency room Colleagues are prepared and equipped to provide the right treatment. Visit our ER on High Park Avenue or the nearest emergency room for treatment for a wide range of serious medical conditions.

Electric shock symptoms to know

Skin burns are a common symptom of electrical shock. If an electric shock causes internal injury, symptoms may include:

Breathing problems, including shortness of breath
Irregular heartbeats or heart attack
Joint dislocations and fractures
Seizures or muscle spasms
Numbness, tingling, pain, weakness or paralysis
Memory problems, personality changes or irritability
Unconsciousness

After experiencing electrical shock, it’s important to have a doctor do a thorough assessment to determine the best treatment.

First aid for electrical shock

From exposed wiring to lightning strikes, electrical shock can happen from a variety of causes, including:

Arching from high-voltage power lines
Touching faulty appliances or wiring
Touching or inserting something into an outlet

The human body is a good conduit for electricity. That’s why it’s important to take extra precautions when caring for an electric shock victim.

To keep yourself safe and help the injured:

Call 911 for quick medical help.
Unplug the source of electricity or turn off the circuit breaker.
Never touch someone who has been shocked – use wood or rubber to move the victim away from the electrical source.
Do not try to rescue the injured person if he or she is near high-voltage power lines.

We can help

Serious accidents happen. And when they do, Goshen Hospital Emergency Department provides skilled treatment around-the-clock. Trust our team for compassionate care.

Goshen Hospital Emergency Department treats symptoms of electric shock in Goshen, IN.