Question 63 QMED05 - Machinist-Pump Technician

The Correct Answer is D. **Why Option D ("shutdown electrical power in the area") is correct:** In any situation involving an electrical hazard, the safety of the rescuer is paramount, and the source of the danger must be eliminated before patient care begins. If the electrical power is still live, the victim may still be in contact with the source, and attempting to move the victim (Option A) or treat them exposes the rescuer to the risk of severe or fatal electrocution (becoming the next victim). Therefore, the absolute first step is to isolate the power by shutting down the circuit breaker, pulling the plug, or contacting the utility company if necessary, ensuring the scene is safe. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) remove the patient from the vicinity of the live electrical equipment or wiring:** This is the *second* step, after ensuring the power is off. If the power is still live, touching the victim or anything they are in contact with will complete the circuit, immediately putting the rescuer in grave danger. * **B) flush water over any burned area of the patient:** Applying water (a conductor) to a patient still in contact with live electricity is extremely dangerous and can worsen the shock or electrocute the rescuer. Even after the power is off, flushing burns is part of secondary care, not the immediate first priority in an electrical hazard scenario. * **C) apply ointment to the burned areas on the patient:** Applying ointment is a delayed treatment step and is inappropriate for immediate emergency care, especially for severe burns like electrical burns which may have significant internal damage. It must only be done long after the power is safely disconnected and more critical stabilization steps are performed.