Electrical Supply in Physiotherapy

Electrical Supply
in Physiotherapy
MODULE II: ELECTRICAL SUPPLY
Electricity is essential in physiotherapy, powering devices

from electrotherapy machines to treadmills. However, it
presents potential hazards like shocks and short circuits. This
presentation covers essential electrical safety measures for
physiotherapy settings, ensuring patient and staff well-
being.
B y Dr. Anurag Dahal

Main E lectric S upply
1 P ower S ource
Physiotherapy departments use AC power (110V or 220V)
distributed through wiring and outlets. A stable supply is
crucial for precise device operation and treatment efficacy.
2 S table S upply
Fluctuations can impact treatment outcomes. Surge
protectors and UPS systems safeguard against voltage spikes
and outages.
3 Backup P ower
Backup generators or emergency power systems are vital,
especially in hospitals, for continuous operation during
power failures, particularly for vulnerable patients.
Dangers of E lectricity - E lectrical Hazards
S hort Circuits E lectric S hocks Fire Hazards
Caused by damaged wires or Direct contact with electric Overheating from short circuits
faulty insulation, short circuits current can cause micro shocks can ignite flammable materials.
lead to overheating, (small currents, potentially Proper insulation and circuit
malfunctions, and fire risks. harmful to sensitive patients) protection are vital fire
Regular equipment and macro shocks (larger prevention measures.
maintenance is essential. currents causing burns or
cardiac arrest).
Electricity, though essential, poses several dangers in a physiotherapy setting if not handled properly. The
main risks include short circuits, electric shocks, and fire hazards.
Short Circuits
A short circuit occurs when there is an unintended, direct connection between two points in a circuit,
bypassing the normal resistance. This creates a path of low resistance, allowing an excessive flow of
current, which can lead to overheating, equipment malfunction, or fire.
• Causes: Short circuits are typically caused by damaged wires, faulty insulation, or improper
installation of electrical systems. In physiotherapy, this can happen if the equipment is not well-
maintained or if there's wear and tear on power cords and connections.
• Consequences: In a physiotherapy environment, short circuits can lead to dangerous situations,

including:
• Fire: Overheating can ignite nearby flammable materials or wiring insulation.

• Damage to equipment: The surge of current can damage sensitive electronic components in
therapy devices.
• Electrical shocks: If someone comes into contact with a live wire or faulty equipment, they
could receive a dangerous shock.
E lectric S hocks
Electric shocks occur when a person comes into contact with an electric current. The severity of an electric shock
depends on several factors, including the voltage, the current's path through the body, the duration of contact, and
the individual’s health condition.
There are two main types of shocks relevant to physiotherapy:
• Micro Shocks: These are small electrical currents, as low as 100 microamps, that pass through the body. While
seemingly harmless, micro shocks can be dangerous, particularly for patients with conditions that make them
more sensitive to electrical current. In a physiotherapy department, micro shocks are a potential risk during
electrotherapy treatments or when patients with compromised skin (e.g., wounds or burns) come into contact
with electrical equipment. If the equipment is faulty or improperly grounded, even a small current can cause
discomfort or minor injuries.
• Macro Shocks: These involve larger currents passing through the body, usually resulting in more severe
injuries. Macro shocks can lead to serious issues, such as burns, cardiac arrest, or muscle contractions. The risks
of macro shocks increase significantly when using TENS units, muscle stimulators, or other electrical devices in
close contact with the patient's body. If equipment malfunctions or is mishandled, the patient could receive a
significant shock, endangering their safety.
Safety Devices: Earthing and Fuses
Earthing Fuses
Directs excess current to the ground, preventing shocks Melt and break the circuit during overloads, preventing
and protecting equipment. Double insulation and damage and fire. Cartridge fuses and circuit breakers are
proper earthing are essential for patient contact devices. commonly used, requiring regular inspection.
Safety Devices: Circuit
Breakers and RCDs
1 Circuit Breakers
Automatically shut off power during overloads or short circuits,
resettable for convenience. Essential in all treatment rooms.
2 GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) Breakers

Specialized circuit breakers prevent shocks in areas with direct
patient contact with electricity.
3 Residual Current Devices (RCDs)

Detect small current leaks, preventing shocks. Crucial for
electrotherapy and equipment with skin contact, mandatory in
modern settings.
E quipment Maintenance and
Ins ulation
Regular Ins pections
Regularly inspect wires, plugs, and connections for wear. Promptly address any signs of
damage.
Tes ting and Calibration

Electrotherapy devices require regular testing and calibration to ensure accurate and
safe operation.
Removal of Faulty E quipment

Immediately remove any malfunctioning or damaged equipment from service to
prevent accidents.
Ins ulation
Ensure all electrical components and wiring are well-insulated to prevent shocks and
short circuits. Double insulation is preferred.
S taff Training
Turning Off E quipment Patient Pos itioning E quipment Checks

Train staff to always turn off Instruct staff on safe patient Establish protocols for pre-
equipment after use to minimize positioning to avoid direct contact treatment equipment checks to
risks. with electrical components during ensure everything is in good
treatments. working order.
S afe Us e Protocols
Dry E nvironments
Keep electrical equipment away from wet areas and
ensure patients' skin is dry before applying electrodes.
Cord Management
Properly manage cords to prevent tripping hazards
and damage from foot traffic or equipment.
Vis ual Ins pections

Regularly inspect equipment for any signs of damage
or wear and tear.
Emergency Procedures
Electrical Shock Immediately disconnect
the power source.
First Aid Administer first aid and

CPR if necessary.
Faulty Equipment Report and remove faulty

equipment for inspection
and repair.
Conclus ion: Prioritizing
S afety
Electrical safety is paramount in physiotherapy. By
implementing these measures and fostering a safety-
conscious culture, you can provide effective treatments while
minimizing electrical hazards.

Electrical Supply in Physiotherapy

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Electrical Supply in Physiotherapy

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Electrical Supply in Physiotherapy

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Electrical Supply

Electricity is essential in physiotherapy, powering devices

B y Dr. Anurag Dahal

• Consequences: In a physiotherapy environment, short circuits can lead to dangerous situations,

• Fire: Overheating can ignite nearby flammable materials or wiring insulation.

There are two main types of shocks relevant to physiotherapy:

2 GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) Breakers

3 Residual Current Devices (RCDs)

Tes ting and Calibration

Removal of Faulty E quipment

Turning Off E quipment Patient Pos itioning E quipment Checks

Vis ual Ins pections

First Aid Administer first aid and

Faulty Equipment Report and remove faulty

You might also like