Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

What condition can result from the heat generated by an electrical injury?

1. Cardiac arrest

2. Compartment syndrome

3. Respiratory failure

4. Encephalopathy

The correct answer is: Compartment syndrome

Heat generated by an electrical injury can lead to compartment syndrome, which is a serious condition that occurs when there is increased pressure within a muscle compartment. This increased pressure can restrict blood flow to the muscles and nerves within that compartment, potentially resulting in muscle and nerve damage. The heat produced during the electrical injury can cause extensive tissue damage, leading to swelling and increased pressure in the affected area. When muscles and nerves in a compartment become compromised, symptoms can include severe pain, tingling, weakness, and decreased range of motion. If not treated promptly, compartment syndrome can lead to permanent damage, including muscle necrosis and loss of function. This makes it crucial for emergency responders to recognize the signs of compartment syndrome in patients who have sustained electrical injuries. While cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, and encephalopathy are potential complications of electrical injuries, they are not specifically a direct result of the heat generated by the injury in the same way that compartment syndrome is linked to tissue damage and swelling.