Electric shock, Part III: Deliberately applied electric shocks and the treatment of electric injuries.

Earlier parts of this series have discussed the physics, pathophysiology, and nature of electric injury. This part will discuss deliberately applied electric shocks and the treatment of electric injuries. Electric shocks are deliberately applied to persons during electroshock therapy and with stun guns, shock batons, and electric cattle prods. Electric injuries, whether a complication of deliberate electric shock or due to accidental injury, should be treated to preserve cardiac and respiratory function and to prevent further tissue damage. Safe extrication at the scene, rapid triage, and emergency medical treatment are discussed.