Stun Gun Injury: Care Instructions

Overview

Stun guns (such as Tasers) are called conductive energy devices. They are handheld devices that use electricity to stun a person. The electricity causes uncontrollable muscle contractions. After being stunned with electricity, the person usually falls to the ground.

These devices are less likely to cause death or injury than other weapons, such as handguns. But stun guns can cause some injuries, such as burns, cuts, or muscle problems. Muscles may be sore for a day or two. More serious health problems may occur in people who have medical conditions.

If the device uses darts to stun a person, the darts can leave small puncture wounds. It's important to keep these puncture wounds clean while they heal.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Wash the area daily with warm water, and pat it dry. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing.
• Put ice or a cold pack on the sore muscles for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
• You may also try heat for sore muscles. Put a warm water bottle, a heating pad set on low, or a warm cloth on the area. Put a thin cloth between the heating pad and your skin.
• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You passed out (lost consciousness).
• You have severe trouble breathing.

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have new or worse pain.
• You have symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the area.
  • Pus draining from the area.
  • A fever.
• Your urine looks pink or brown.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.