Which factor can increase the risk of injury while being shocked?

Prepare for the OSHA Avoiding Electrocution Hazards in Healthcare Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, with hints and explanations for each. Boost your readiness for the exam!

Multiple Choice

Which factor can increase the risk of injury while being shocked?

Explanation:
Sweat can significantly increase the risk of injury when experiencing an electric shock because it reduces the resistance of the skin. When the skin is wet or damp, such as when sweat is present, electrical current can flow more easily into the body. This increased conductivity means that a person is more susceptible to receiving a higher amount of electric current, which can lead to more serious injuries, including burns or cardiac arrest. In contrast, dry skin is a natural barrier to electrical flow, providing higher resistance and thus reducing the likelihood of a severe shock. Wearing shoes can offer some level of insulation from the ground, and using insulated tools further protects against electrical contact, reducing the risk of injury. Therefore, sweat represents a heightened danger due to its ability to facilitate the passage of electrical current into the body, making it a critical factor to consider in the context of electrocution hazards in healthcare settings.

Sweat can significantly increase the risk of injury when experiencing an electric shock because it reduces the resistance of the skin. When the skin is wet or damp, such as when sweat is present, electrical current can flow more easily into the body. This increased conductivity means that a person is more susceptible to receiving a higher amount of electric current, which can lead to more serious injuries, including burns or cardiac arrest.

In contrast, dry skin is a natural barrier to electrical flow, providing higher resistance and thus reducing the likelihood of a severe shock. Wearing shoes can offer some level of insulation from the ground, and using insulated tools further protects against electrical contact, reducing the risk of injury. Therefore, sweat represents a heightened danger due to its ability to facilitate the passage of electrical current into the body, making it a critical factor to consider in the context of electrocution hazards in healthcare settings.

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