Electric Shock Treatment

Self-Care at Home

Brief low-voltage shocks that do not result in any symptoms or burns of the skin do not require care. For any high-voltage shock, or for any shock resulting in burns, seek care at a hospital's emergency department. A doctor should evaluate electric cord burns to the mouth of a child.

Medical Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the burns or the nature of other injuries found.

• Burns are treated according to severity.
  • Minor burns may be treated with topical antibiotic ointment and dressings.
  • More severe burns may require surgery to clean the wounds or even skin grafting.
  • Severe burns on the arms, legs, or hands may require surgery to remove damaged muscle or even amputation.
• Other injuries may require treatment.
  • Eye injuries may require examination and treatment by an ophthalmologist, an eye specialist.
  • Broken bones require splinting, casting, or surgery to stabilize the bones.
  • Internal injuries may require observation or surgery.