In what two ways can electrical currents flowing through the body affect tissues?

The correct choice captures two significant physiological responses that can occur when electrical currents pass through body tissues. Fibrillation refers to a chaotic, irregular contraction of the heart muscle that can lead to ineffective pumping and potentially fatal consequences. This condition typically occurs when a strong electrical current disrupts the heart’s normal electrical signaling, leading to a loss of synchronized pumping.

Tetany, on the other hand, is characterized by prolonged muscle contractions and spasms. When electrical currents flow through skeletal muscles, they can cause overstimulation, leading to sustained contractions. This effect can occur if the muscles are subjected to continuous electrical stimulation, resulting from either direct electrical contact or certain medical treatments.

Together, these two phenomena illustrate the potentially harmful effects of electrical currents on human tissues, particularly the heart and muscles, emphasizing the importance of understanding electrical safety in biomedical applications.