Final answer:
An extension cord running under the patient table in a surgery or intensive care setting can cause problems for microshock-sensitive patients. It can increase the current flowing through the patient's body and reduce the power output of the electrical appliances being used.
Step-by-step explanation:
An extension cord running under the patient table in a surgery or intensive care setting can cause problems for a microshock-sensitive patient. This is because the break in the skin reduces the patient's resistance, allowing a greater current to flow through their body with the same voltage. This can have a significant effect on the patient.
In addition, if the extension cord has a large voltage drop, it can reduce the voltage supplied to the appliance being used. As a result, the power output of the appliance is significantly decreased, which can reduce its ability to work properly.
Hence, it is important to ensure that extension cords are properly insulated and not placed in a position where they can pose a risk to patients or affect the performance of electrical appliances.