What To Do If Your Child Accidentally Gets An Electric Shock?

Is your child inquisitive by nature and loves to poke his or her fingers in the electric sockets? Does he or she like to play with electric toys like chargeable battery operated toy? If yes, then you may like to read this blog, as it talks about child getting an electric shock accidentally.

What To Do If Your Child Gets An Electric Shock Accidentally?

Here are few measures you need to adopt immediately if your child gets an electric shock.

1. Detach your child from the source of electricity: If the child has not himself or herself fallen by the force of a shock, detach the child from the source of current by switching off the main point to avoid further mishap
2. Switch-off the mains: Break the connection with the current and your child's body with the help of a non-conductor like wooden stick or spatula. Avoid touching the live wires with bare hands even when the mains are switched off. It is also important to avoid contact with any wet cloth or mat while breaking the connection
3. Keep self-safe to avoid catching the current: As a parent, it is important to keep yourself safe to avoid any mishap. Wear rubber slippers and ensure not to touch your child's body with wet hands even after the child has been detached from the source of electricity
4. Give first aid: Once child is separated from the source of electricity, his or her body should be tilted and he or she should be made to lie down in a position such that his or her head is placed lower than rest of the body. However, it is to be ensured that the body is not moved too much as there might have been injuries to the child's spine or neck. It is important that the child affected by the electric shock be kept warm. Adequate clothing to cover the child to keep him or her warm. Child's breathing should be checked immediately. In case it appears to be slow or disrupted he or she should be rushed to the hospital emergency unit immediately. Check your child's body for burns and immediately rush him or her to the hospital even for minor burns. Avoid applying any cream or ice in without doctor's consultation
5. Check both "entry and exit" wounds: Exit wounds refer to injuries to parts of the child's body which hit the ground when he or she suffered the shock. The child may suffer further injuries because of falling down or bouncing on the floor. Both types of injuries need to be addressed
6. Follow doctor's instruction to the 'T': A doctor may have to inspect for internal injuries caused by the electrical shock. He would have to carry on an extensive check up to check on the same. The paediatrician may suggest lotions or dressings depending on the nature of burns. They may also advice being hospitalised if the extent of damage is acute. Pathological tests, medications or surgeries would be recommended after complete examination. As parents do follow your doctor's instructions to take best care of your child

Did you find the blog on what to do when your child gets an electric shock accidentally? Has your child suffered an electric shock? What first aid measures you took to soothe him or her? Share your thoughts and views here in the comments section below, as we would love to hear from you.