When someone experiences a drowning incident, immediate action can significantly improve the outcome. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is frequently a necessary intervention for individuals who have drowned, as their bodies are deprived of oxygen, leading to respiratory and cardiac arrest.
Immediate Steps for a Drowning Incident
Once the individual is safely out of the water, quickly assess their responsiveness by shouting and gently tapping their shoulder. If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, immediately call emergency services, such as 911 or your local emergency number. If others are present, delegate this task to ensure a rapid response. While awaiting professional help, position the individual on their back on a firm, flat surface. Routine spinal immobilization is not typically recommended unless there is clear evidence of a head or neck injury, as it can hinder effective rescue breathing.
Performing CPR for Drowning Victims
CPR for drowning victims differs from standard cardiac arrest protocols due to the primary cause being lack of oxygen. For drowning incidents, the emphasis is on providing breaths first, often referred to as the A-B-C (Airway, Breathing, Compressions) approach. This prioritizes oxygen delivery to counteract the hypoxia that occurs from submersion.
Begin by delivering five initial rescue breaths to the unresponsive individual. To do this, open their airway by tilting their head back and lifting their chin. Pinch the nose shut, form a tight seal with your mouth over theirs, and breathe for about one second, ensuring the chest visibly rises with each breath.
After the initial breaths, start chest compressions. Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest, with the other hand on top, interlocking your fingers. Press down hard and fast, compressing the chest about two inches deep for adults, at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Continue alternating between 30 chest compressions and two rescue breaths without interruption until emergency medical personnel arrive or the person shows clear signs of life.
Critical Follow-Up Care
Even if an individual appears to recover after a drowning incident and CPR, it is imperative they receive professional medical evaluation. Complications can develop hours or even days later, potentially including pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), or brain damage due to oxygen deprivation. Medical professionals can assess for these delayed issues and provide appropriate treatment.
While awaiting medical assistance, continue to monitor the person’s breathing and responsiveness. If they regain consciousness, place them in a recovery position if they are breathing normally. Keep the individual warm with blankets, as hypothermia is common after water immersion.
Safety for the Rescuer
Prioritizing your own safety is a fundamental aspect of any rescue situation. People in distress in the water may panic and inadvertently pose a risk to their rescuer. Therefore, it is advisable to employ methods like “Reach, Throw, Row, Don’t Go” before entering the water yourself.
If direct contact becomes necessary, approach with caution and only if you are trained and confident in your abilities. Good Samaritan laws exist in many places to offer legal protection to individuals who provide reasonable assistance during emergencies without expectation of payment. These laws generally aim to encourage bystanders to offer aid by protecting them from liability for unintentional harm, provided their actions are not grossly negligent.