[Low-voltage adult electrical injuries in the emergency department reminders of management and pitfalls].

Abstract

Electrical injuries are relatively rare but can be life threatening. Mortality depends on acute cardiac complications, the extent and depth of burns, and trauma from associated falls. A better understanding of the pathophysiology of electric current has made it possible to distinguish between different lesions, which are more or less visible on initial clinical examination. A management plan has been drawn up, enabling healthcare professionals to decide if intensive care monitoring or hospitalization is required, depending in particular on the presence of severity criteria.