Current flows through the patient and dissipates into the tissues. The combination of an arc burn plus conduction of current leads to deep destruction. Nerve, muscles and blood vessels are good conductors making these tissues more susceptible to electrical trauma. Rhabdomyolysis and neurolysis are important distinguishing features of electrical injury. Hemolysis may also occur by similar mechanisms.
Muscles experience involuntary spasms when exposed to alternating high currents.
Because the long flexors of the forearm are more powerful than the extensors, victims holding conductors may not be able to release the contact. DC currents, on the other hand, do not have this same effect. All victims of high voltage electrical trauma should be admitted to a unit specializing in care for these individuals, however, prior to transfer, the victim frequently needs to be stabilized. In all patients, intravenous access should be established and a 12 lead ECG performed. Electrical currents can cause cardiac arrhythmias including cardiac arrest.