What is the standard initial EMS management for an unresponsive patient with a possible electrical injury?

• A. Ensure scene safety, remove from the source if safe, assess ABCs, start CPR if indicated, monitor ECG.
• B. Approach the patient as quickly as possible without considering the source, then transport.
• C. Only check the pulse and wait for a pulse check in ED.
• D. Give antibiotics immediately.

Answer: (A)

Electrical injuries pose a danger to both the patient and the rescuer, so the first priority is scene safety and removing the patient from the source only if it is safe to do so. Then perform a rapid primary survey focused on airway, breathing, and circulation. If the patient is unresponsive and not breathing or has no pulse, start CPR immediately and summon advanced help, while continuing to monitor the heart rhythm with ECG. Continuous rhythm monitoring is important because electrical injury can trigger life-threatening arrhythmias or cardiac conduction problems that require urgent treatment. Antibiotics are not part of the initial EMS management, and approaching without addressing the source or delaying life-saving actions would increase the risk.