Review article: Emergency department implications of the TASER

Authors: Robb, Megan; Close, Benjamin; Furyk, Jeremy; Aitken, Peter

Source: Emergency Medicine Australasia, Volume 21, Number 4, August 2009 , pp. 250-258(9)

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Abstract:

The TASER is a conducted electricity device currently being introduced to the Australian and New Zealand police forces as an alternative to firearms in dealing with violent and dangerous individuals. It incapacitates the subject by delivering rapid pulses of electricity causing involuntary muscle contraction and pain. The use of this device might lead to cardiovascular, respiratory, biochemical, obstetric, ocular and traumatic sequelae. This article will summarize the current literature and propose assessment and management recommendations to guide emergency physicians who will be required to review these patients.

Keywords: artificial pacemaker; cardiac arrhythmia; electrocardiograph; sudden death; TASER

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1742-6723.2009.01194.x

Publication date: 2009-08-01