Lightning injuries.
The physical properties of lightning are given, including a description of the different observed lightning forms. The wide variety of effects of lightning on humans is reviewed. In the prehospital care of those struck by lightning, emphasis is upon immediate resuscitation of those who appear unresponsive. Recommendations for emergency department evaluation, treatment, and disposition are given. Guidelines to prevent humans from being struck by lightning are discussed.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002058:Burns, Electric / Q000150:complications / Q000401:mortality / Q000628:therapy; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006259:Craniocerebral Trauma / Q000401:mortality; D005132:Eye Manifestations; D005260:Female; D006323:Heart Arrest / Q000209:etiology / Q000401:mortality; D006801:Humans; D007743:Labor, Obstetric; D007869:Leg Injuries / Q000401:mortality; D008030:Lightning; D009461:Neurologic Manifestations; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications; D011379:Prognosis; D012151:Resuscitation; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012640:Seizures / Q000628:therapy; D012877:Skin Manifestations; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000401:mortality / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy