5.2.2. Contraindications for Electrical Equipment Use

💡 First Principle: Electrical devices introduce current into the body. Any condition that affects the body's electrical systems — pacemakers, nerve disorders — or creates risk from current or heat — pregnancy, metal implants, epilepsy — is a contraindication for electrical treatments.

Universal contraindications for ALL electrical devices:

• Pacemaker or implanted cardiac defibrillator — electrical current interferes with device function
• Metal implants in treatment area — current concentrates around metal, causing burns
• Epilepsy or seizure disorders — electrical current can trigger neurological events
• Pregnancy — general contraindication due to unknown effects; advise to consult physician
• Active skin infections in treatment area — current can spread infection
• Severe rosacea or telangiectasias — heat/current worsens vasodilation

Device-specific additional contraindications:

⚠️ Exam Trap: The exam may present a client with a pacemaker who wants a facial. The correct response is to provide a manual facial only — no electrical devices of any kind, including high frequency, galvanic, or vacuum devices.

Reflection Question: A client discloses she has a pacemaker but says she's had "electrical facials before with no problem." Should you proceed with electrical treatments? Why or why not?