skip to main content

Electrical burn with compartment syndrome — RCPSC EM MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardTraumaElectrical burn with compartment syndromeRCPSC EM

A 40-year-old electrician sustains a high-voltage injury. He has circumferential forearm burns, escalating opioid requirement, pain with passive finger extension, and tense compartments. CK is 18,000 U/L and potassium is 5.9 mmol/L. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Electrical burn with acute compartment syndrome

High-voltage injury with tense compartments, pain on passive stretch, rhabdomyolysis, and hyperkalaemia indicates acute compartment syndrome after electrical burn.

Reference: Canadian burn care practice; ATLS