For electrical burns, which statement is correct?

For electrical burns, which statement is correct?

• A. Move the person away from the source while it is still powered
• B. Apply ice directly to burn
• C. Do not touch the person until the electrical source is shut off
• D. Break blisters to relieve pain

Answer: (C)

Safety starts with turning off the electrical source before you touch the person. Electricity can still be flowing, and you could be shocked or pulled into the circuit, causing serious injury to you. The right approach is to shut off power at the source if you can do so safely, or use a nonconductive object to separate the person from the source without making contact. Only once the current is off should you approach to check responsiveness, begin CPR if needed, and start burn care.

After the source is off, cool the burn with running cool water for about 10 minutes, avoid applying ice, remove any jewelry if it’s not stuck to the skin, cover with a clean dressing, and treat for shock if indicated. Blisters should not be broken, and avoid home remedies that could cause infection.