How does prolonged contact with electrical current typically affect heart rate?

Prolonged contact with electrical current can lead to a reduction in heart rate, a condition known as bradycardia. This occurs because electrical current can disrupt the normal electrical signals that control the heartbeat, causing the heart to beat slower than normal. The nerves and muscles in the heart are sensitive to electrical impulses, and when exposed to an external current, the heart's rhythm can be negatively impacted. This can result in decreased blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout the body, further complicating the physiological response. Understanding this effect is crucial for electrical safety, as it highlights the potentially life-threatening impacts that electrical shock can have on cardiovascular function.