Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

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What are the two most common causes of death from electrical burn injuries?

Stroke and renal failure
Asphyxia and cardiac arrest
Infection and sepsis
Hypothermia and shock

The correct answer is: Asphyxia and cardiac arrest

The most common causes of death from electrical burn injuries are asphyxia and cardiac arrest. When a person is subjected to electrical burns, the current can disrupt the normal electrical conduction of the heart, leading to arrhythmias or cardiac arrest. This is particularly critical because electrical injuries may cause the heart to go into ventricular fibrillation, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention. Additionally, asphyxia can result from electrical injuries due to muscle contractions or respiratory paralysis induced by the current. If the respiratory muscles are affected, the individual may be unable to breathe properly, leading to hypoxia and potential death. The combination of these two factors—cardiac arrest and respiratory failure—highlights why they are the primary causes of death in cases of electrical burns, making it essential for responders to monitor and manage these complications promptly in affected individuals.