ASSESSMENT OF ELECTRICAL INJURY ON SURVIVORS IN CMCH

Abstract

Electrical burn and sequels of electrical burn is a common phenomenon in our society. Electrical trauma can be caused by low-voltage current (less than 1000 V), high-voltage current (more than 1000 V), lightning and voltaic arc. Worldwide It causes serious injuries to a significant number of individuals every year with mortality rate of 20- 30%,while as many as 74% of survivors experience permanent injury and consequence. Very few studies on electric burn injury and its sequels have been reported so far in Bangladesh. During this study we attempted to explore the occurrence of electric burn injury in different demographic areas and post burn sequels among patients suffering from electrical burn in a tertiary level hospital. We conducted a cross-sectional retrospective study that among 200 patients who were unfortunate victim of electrical accidental burn and were admitted in the Burn and Plastic Surgery Department of Chittagong Medical College Hospital, Chattogram. Data of the patients admitted during November 2021 to July 2022 were included for study. Among 200 cases, demographic data revealed that more males (89%) were affected than the females(11%).Highest no of victims was less than 40 years(90%). According to profession Students(28.5%), service holders(40%) and electrical service providers(15.5%) were the most vulnerable groups. Literacy of the large number(37%) of injured person was below secondary level and apparently most of the affected population(76.5%)was from rural areas. A high 70% patient had epidermal burn and maximum had areas of involvement of the body .We recorded that 32% patients were suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Among the survivors, 6% were not able to do their daily activities after the injury. To conclude, post electrical burn sequels are need proper attention and care needs to be taken to avoid further complications. Use of good quality electric wires, home appliances, enforcement of safety rules in the home and workplace and up gradation of the health facilities are required to decrease the threat of severe electrical injuries