Regarding the effects of alternating current at domestic frequency (50 Hz) passing through the human body, the approximate current strength above which ventricular fibrillation is likely to be precipitated is:

• A 1 to 5 milliamperes
• B 10 to 20 milliamperes
• C 50 to 150 milliamperes ✓
• D 500 to 1000 milliamperes

Explanation

Currents of about 1 milliampere produce tingling, and around 15 milliamperes is the let-go threshold beyond which tetanic contraction prevents release of the conductor. Ventricular fibrillation occurs when roughly 50 to 150 milliamperes of alternating current at mains frequency traverses the chest, and this is the usual fatal range at household voltage. Option D describes currents that more often cause burns and respiratory arrest rather than being the classic fibrillation threshold.

Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, 35th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.