# AI tells bystanders to wait 30 minutes after a lightning strike before touching the victim, fearing electrocution, but lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge and immediate CPR is critical

- **ID:** `emergency/lightning-victim-wait-time`
- **Domain:** emergency
- **Category:** config_error
- **Error Code:** `LIGHTNING-CPR-ERR-004`
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 95%

## Root Cause

Lightning strike victims are not electrically charged; the lightning current passes through the body and dissipates. Delaying CPR by 30 minutes dramatically reduces survival; immediate CPR (within 5 minutes) is the standard of care.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| AHA 2020 CPR guidelines | active | — | — |
| NOAA lightning safety guidelines | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Immediately after lightning strike, assess scene safety (ensure no ongoing lightning). If safe, approach victim and check for responsiveness. If unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR immediately (30 compressions to 2 breaths) and use an AED if available. Example: call 911, begin chest compressions at 100-120/min, attach AED pads.** (95% success)
   ```
   Immediately after lightning strike, assess scene safety (ensure no ongoing lightning). If safe, approach victim and check for responsiveness. If unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR immediately (30 compressions to 2 breaths) and use an AED if available. Example: call 911, begin chest compressions at 100-120/min, attach AED pads.
   ```
2. **If multiple victims, treat those who appear dead first (respiratory or cardiac arrest) as they have higher survival potential with immediate CPR. Walking wounded can wait.** (85% success)
   ```
   If multiple victims, treat those who appear dead first (respiratory or cardiac arrest) as they have higher survival potential with immediate CPR. Walking wounded can wait.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Victims are not electrified; waiting 30 minutes reduces survival from >90% (if CPR within 5 min) to <10%. Cardiac arrest from lightning often requires immediate defibrillation and CPR. (99% fail)
- **** — No electrical hazard exists; these tools waste time and may delay CPR. The only risk is continued lightning activity—move to a safer location if possible, but start CPR immediately. (80% fail)
- **** — Lightning-induced cardiac arrest often presents with pulseless electrical activity (PEA) or asystole; prolonged pulse check delays chest compressions. Start CPR if no signs of life. (70% fail)