What impact does the type of current (AC/DC) have on electrical burns?

The type of current—alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC)—has a significant impact on the severity and pathway of injuries sustained during electrical burns. AC current tends to cause more severe injuries than DC current at comparable voltages. This is partly because AC can cause continuous muscle contractions, potentially leading to serious internal injuries, while DC current tends to cause a single muscular contraction, which may throw a victim away from the source of the shock.

When AC current passes through the body, it can create a pathway that allows for more prolonged exposure to electrical energy, which can escalate the severity of burns and internal injuries. In contrast, DC generally causes burns at the entry and exit points, often resulting in less extensive tissue damage. This difference in the way these currents affect the human body illustrates why understanding the type of current is critical when assessing the severity of electrical burns and injuries.