You are called to a patient who has been electrocuted by a high-voltage overhead power line while working on a construction site. The power has been c...

Question

You are called to a patient who has been electrocuted by a high-voltage overhead power line while working on a construction site. The power has been confirmed as disconnected. The patient is in cardiac arrest. What is the most important consideration specific to electrocution-related cardiac arrest?

Accepted Answer

Prolonged resuscitation is warranted as survival rates are higher than in other cardiac arrest aetiologies

Answer

External cardiac compression is contraindicated due to risk of myocardial rupture

Answer

The most likely initial rhythm is asystole and prognosis is uniformly poor

Answer

Adrenaline should be withheld due to the risk of arrhythmias

Answer

Standard ALS should not be attempted due to risk of secondary electrocution

uk-dipimc MCQ (SBA): Electrocution Cardiac Arrest