What is the danger of using a three-pronged grounding plug with a broken prong?

Using a three-pronged grounding plug with a broken prong presents a significant risk of exposing someone to hazardous shock. The purpose of the third prong in a three-pronged plug is to provide a safe grounding path for electrical current. When this grounding prong is broken, the device is no longer properly grounded. In the event of an electrical fault, such as a short circuit or electrical leakage, the current may find an unintended path to the ground, which could include a person who comes into contact with the faulty device. This can result in serious electrical shock, which can lead to injuries or even fatalities in a healthcare setting where electrically powered equipment is commonly used.

Addressing the other options provides additional context: The potential for a fire hazard, while serious, is less direct than the risk of shock presented by a broken grounding prong. Machine malfunction might occur if the device has other issues or if grounding is necessary for proper operation, but it is not as immediate a danger as shock. Shortening the cord's lifespan could happen due to wear and tear, but this does not specifically relate to the immediate risks posed by a broken grounding prong. These factors highlight why the risk of electrical shock is the most critical concern in this scenario.