What term describes very low currents that may be lethal to patients with indwelling electrodes or catheters?

The term that describes very low currents that may be lethal to patients with indwelling electrodes or catheters is microschock. This term refers to the harmful effects that can occur due to low-level electrical currents, often in the microampere range, which can bypass normal physiological barriers in patients who have conductive devices implanted in their bodies. These devices can create pathways for current to flow directly through the heart or other critical tissues, potentially leading to arrhythmias or other serious complications.

Understanding microschock is crucial in the context of neurophysiologic intraoperative monitoring, especially since patients undergoing these procedures might have electrodes or catheters placed in or near vital areas. Awareness and prevention of microschock are essential for maintaining patient safety during procedures that involve electrical activity monitoring.