Electric Shock
- Electric Shock Overview
- Electric Shock Causes
- Electric Shock Symptoms
- When to Seek Medical Care
- Exams and Tests
- Electric Shock Treatment
- Self-Care at Home
- Medical Treatment
- Next Steps
- Prevention
- Outlook
- Multimedia
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Electric Shock Overview
An electric shock occurs when a person comes into contact with an electrical energy source. Electrical energy flows through a portion of the body causing a shock. Exposure to electrical energy may result in no injury at all or may result in devastating damage or death.
Burns are the most common injury from electric shock.
Next: Electric Shock Causes »
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Electric Shock
Electrocardiogram Introduction
The electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a diagnostic tool that measures and records the electrical activity of the heart in exquisite detail. Interpretation of these details allows diagnosis of a wide range of heart conditions. These conditions can vary from minor to life threatening.
The term electrocardiogram was introduced by Willem Einthoven in 1893 at a meeting of the Dutch Medical Society. In 1924, Einthoven received the Nobel Prize for his life's work in developing the ECG.
The ECG has evolved over the years.
- The standard 12-lead ECG that is used throughout the world was introduced in 1942.
- It is called a 12-lead ECG because it examines the electrical activity of the heart from 12 points of view.
- This is necessary because no single point (or even 2 or 3 points of view) provides a complete picture of what is going on.
- To full...
Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine
Electrical Injuries »
Electrical injuries have become a more common form of trauma with a unique pathophysiology and with high morbidity and mortality.
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