Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

This statement is true. Alternating current (AC) is generally considered more dangerous than direct current (DC) in electrical injuries for several reasons:

1. Muscle contraction: AC causes repetitive muscle contractions, which can lead to the inability to let go of the electrical source, prolonging exposure.

2. Cardiac effects: AC is more likely to cause ventricular fibrillation, a life-threatening arrhythmia, even at lower voltages.

3. Nervous system impact: AC interferes more with the body's natural electrical signals, potentially causing more severe neurological damage.

4. Frequency: Most household and industrial AC operates at frequencies (50-60 Hz) that closely match the heart's natural rhythm, increasing the risk of cardiac disturbances.

While DC can still cause severe injuries, its continuous flow tends to cause a single muscle contraction, often allowing the victim to break contact with the source more quickly. However, it's important to note that both AC and DC can be lethal, and all electrical injuries should be treated as potentially severe medical emergencies.