Burns that result from current flowing through the body, potentially damaging tissue or the heart are called what?

• A. Electrical Burns
• B. Thermal Burns
• C. Chemical Burns
• D. Radiation Burns

Answer: (A)

Electrical burns occur when an electrical current travels through the body, and the tissue resistance converts some of that energy into heat. That heat can cause internal damage along the current’s path, potentially injuring nerves, muscles, and organs, with the heart being particularly at risk because the electrical current can disrupt its rhythm or cause arrest. Often the outside of the skin may show only minor burns, while substantial internal injury has occurred. The other burn types—thermal, chemical, and radiation—start from external heat sources, chemicals, or radiation exposure, and do not involve current flowing through the body.