Electrical Burns – Burn and Reconstructive Centers of America

HOW TO TREAT ELECTRICAL BURNS

A major concern with electrical burns is whether or not the victim has suffered injuries as a result of the electrical current, so any odd sensations, feelings or pains, even remote from the burn, need to be evaluated urgently. Electrical injuries can sometimes be contained to thermal (electricity can create heat and cause a thermal burn or in addition, can be conducted through the body to cause a wide variety of internal injuries).

The guidelines on how to treat an electrical burn depend on the degree of the burn. Mild burns like first-degree and minor second-degree burns can sometimes be treated at home—although it’s always advisable to seek the opinion of a healthcare professional. Severe burns from a more extensive second-degree electrical injury or third-degree burn require immediate intervention and emergency treatment.

Mild Burns

For minor or mild burns, follow these first aid steps:

• If symptoms persist or there is any doubt about the severity of a burn, consult your physician, call 911 or head to the nearest hospital with an emergency department.
• Remove clothing from the affected area.
• Avoid popping blisters, as this can lead to infection.
• Do not use ice or attempt to disinfect the skin with iodine, alcohol or other cleansers. Instead, soak the affected area, apply a cold, wet compress or run under cool water for at least 20 minutes.
• Cover the affected area with a clean, dry and sterile non-stick dressing.
• Never apply oily substances, home remedies like butter, mayonnaise or egg whites, or medicine from your bathroom cabinet directly to the wound.
• Administer over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and swelling.
• Apply moisturizing lotion or petroleum jelly to hydrate the skin and retain moisture to prevent dryness and itching as the burn heals.

Severe Burns

For more severe injuries, electrical burns treatment may include resuscitation and recovery can include surgery and skin grafts. So, it is vital to seek professional assistance as soon as possible. Call 911 or head to the nearest hospital with an emergency department. While you are waiting for help to arrive, follow these first aid steps:

• Make sure the electrical source has been turned off.
• Check for breathing and provide CPR if needed.
• For an electrical burn on hands, arms, legs or feet, raise the burned limb above heart level.
• Cover the victim with warm, dry clothes or blankets.
• Keep checking their breathing and pulse rate until medical personnel arrives.

When to Seek Emergency Care for Your Electrical Burns

The danger posed by electrocution burns depends on the current, voltage, how the electricity travels through the patient’s body and the victim’s overall health. However, even a small amount of electricity can be fatal. For example, an electrical burn on the hand may not leave a visible mark but could still cause significant internal damage and possibly even cardiac arrest. That’s why it’s essential to get properly checked as soon as possible.

While milder burns may not be quite as time-sensitive, you should call 911 immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Pain and contractions
• Seizures
• Heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias)
• Cardiac arrest
• Loss of consciousness

If you are helping someone else who has been burned, be sure to secure your safety and secure the scene:

• Turn off the source of electricity.
• Don’t touch an injured person if they are still in contact with a live electricity source.
• Don’t use your bare hands to move an electricity source.
• Don’t move someone with an electrical injury unless they are in immediate danger.