Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

This statement is true. The 'no-let-go' phenomenon is primarily associated with low-voltage alternating current (AC) electrical injuries rather than high-voltage direct current (DC) injuries.

The 'no-let-go' phenomenon occurs when alternating current causes tetanic muscle contractions, preventing the victim from releasing the electrical source. This is more common with AC because it alternates direction rapidly (typically 50-60 times per second), causing repeated muscle stimulation.

Key points to understand:

1. AC vs. DC: AC is more likely to cause the 'no-let-go' effect due to its oscillating nature, while DC generally causes a single muscle contraction at the moment of contact.

2. Voltage levels: Low-voltage injuries (typically < 1000V) are more often associated with this phenomenon because they're more common in household and many workplace settings.

3. Frequency matters: The standard 50-60 Hz frequency of household AC is particularly dangerous as it closely matches the frequency at which nerves and muscles are stimulated.

4. High-voltage injuries: While severe, high-voltage injuries often throw the victim away from the source due to intense muscle contractions, reducing prolonged contact.

Emergency nurses should be aware of this phenomenon when treating electrical injury patients, as it can lead to prolonged exposure and more severe injuries. It's also crucial in understanding scene safety when approaching electrical injury victims.