What is an example of an electrical hazard commonly found in patient care areas?

An uncovered outlet or exposed wiring is a prominent example of an electrical hazard commonly found in patient care areas. These situations pose a significant risk because they can lead to accidental contact with live electrical components, which can cause serious injuries or even fatalities due to electric shock. The presence of exposed wires can also increase the chances of short circuits and create a fire hazard, especially in environments where medical equipment is frequently used, as moisture or fluids can often be present.

While overloaded circuits and inadequate electrical protections like surge protectors also represent safety concerns, they do not directly expose individuals to live electrical parts as uncovered outlets or exposed wiring do. Isolated grounds are safety features designed to prevent electrical faults, so they do not constitute a hazard in the same way. Therefore, the identification of an electrical hazard is primarily linked to the direct exposure of individuals to potentially dangerous electrical conditions, making uncovered outlets and exposed wiring a critical concern in healthcare settings.