A sudden passage of electricity into the body, causing a nervous spasm or, in severe cases, death.
Traumatic state caused by the passage of an electric current through the body. It usually results from accidental contact with exposed circuits in household appliances but may also result from contact with high-voltage wires or from being struck by lightning. The damage to the body depends on the type, intensity, and duration of the current; it commonly includes bums, heart rhythm abnormalities, and unconsciousness.
Injury caused by exposure of skin or internal organs to electric current. Electric current can cause injury in three ways: by causing cardiac arrest, by damaging muscle tissue, or by burning the skin.
Injury from electricity that varies according to type and strength of current and length and location of contact. Electric shocks range from trivial burns to complete charring and destruction of skin and injury to internal organs, including brain, lungs, kidneys, and heart. Approximately 1000 persons are electrocuted accidentally each year in the U.S., and 4000 persons are injured. Five percent of admissions to burn centers are related to electrical injury.
The feeling resulting from an electric current coursing through the body, along with its consequences. An adequately strong and prolonged current can induce unconsciousness, halt the heart’s activity, cease breathing, lead to burns, and cause harm to tissues.