What to do after an electric shock

How do I know if I need to go to the hospital after an electric shock? Is it possible to survive an electrocution but have experienced some internal damage, such as to the heart?

Asked by Harry on 20th Oct 2022
Expert Trade Answers
"If your still breathing the chances are you'll be fine. If you have an irregular heart rate or feel unwell after a few hours then maybe get checked out. Also if you suffered any burns as a result of the shock.

I myself have had numerous shocks over the years, some pretty nasty ones too and I am fine."
Answered on 20th Oct 2022 - Member since Feb 2019 - report
"Usually not
But seek medical advice
Is better to be safe than sorry"
Answered on 22nd Oct 2022 - Member since Jan 2021 - report
"I'm really no expert on this Harry, but having received many shocks through my career, I would say that you are okay and that there should not be any substantial damage, especially if the shock period was really short, as many are...Yes, some past news stories have highlighted major shocks and burns that have occurred whilst stealing from electrical buildings, these again, are severe. In my opinion, the worst shock you could get is while actually holding a wire in each hand and the current passing through the heart area...With a one handed shock, it's normally just down through the feet to earth...Hope you're okay, and always give care near or around electrics.."
Answered on 20th Oct 2022 - Member since Aug 2022 - report
"Fter an electric shock, if you feel unwell I would get someone to take you to a and e to be checked out. Don't drive untill you've had a check up. I'm not a doctor but best to get checked out.
I would call an electrician to check appliance or circuit that you had the shock from to be made safe.
Unless your an electrician"
Answered on 20th Oct 2022 - Member since Feb 2021 - report
"Hi Harry ,

First and foremost I hope you're okay , electric shocks are scary if you are unfortunate enough to ever experience one. As to any lasting damage caused that can only be answered by a doctor so my advice is if you are concerned then contact 111 immediately to put your mind at ease , the medical experts can advise on what to do next.

As for the electrical safety side of this situation, if safe to do so isolate the equipment/circuit immediately to prevent this from happening again by turning off the appropriate circuit breaker and contact an electrician to come out and investigate why this happened. If you're unsure of how to do this then just keep clear of the item in question. Always use a qualified professional to carry out electrical work as it is dangerous. Never undertake work you are not qualified to do as it can end horribly as well as end up costing more than it would initially.

Regards,

Wade Electrical Contracting"
Answered on 20th Oct 2022 - Member since Aug 2022 - report
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