Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death worldwide, particularly among children and young adults. Its incidence underscores the critical importance of water safety and vigilance in aquatic environments. Knowing first aid, especially cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), can be life-saving in the event of drowning. Immediate and effective intervention can significantly increase the chances of survival and reduce the risk of long-term health complications. By being trained in first aid, individuals can respond swiftly and confidently, potentially saving lives and providing essential care before professional medical help arrives.
Below is a comprehensive guide of how to react in the event that someone is drowning.
1. Ensure Safety:
Before approaching the person, ensure that you are safe and not putting yourself at risk of drowning.
If possible, use a flotation device to reach the person without entering the water.
2. Remove from Water:
If the person is close enough, reach out with an object or throw a flotation device to pull them to safety.
If you must enter the water, only do so if you are trained in water rescue.
3. Check for Responsiveness:
Once out of the water, gently tap the person and shout to see if they respond.
4. Call for Emergency Help:
If the person is unresponsive, shout for help and call emergency services immediately.
Provide specific details about your location and the situation.
5. Open the Airway and Check Breathing:
Tilt the person's head back and lift their chin to open the airway.
Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds.
6. Start CPR if Necessary:
If the person is not breathing or only gasping, start CPR immediately.
Adults and Children:
Give 30 chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute and a depth of about 2 inches (5 cm) for adults and children.
After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths. Pinch the nose shut, cover the person's mouth with yours, and blow into their mouth for about 1 second each, watching for chest rise.
Infants:
Give 30 compressions at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute and a depth of about 1.5 inches (4 cm).
Use two fingers for compressions.
Give 2 rescue breaths by covering the infant’s mouth and nose with your mouth.
7. Continue CPR:
Continue cycles of 30 compressions and 2 rescue breaths until the person starts to breathe normally, emergency medical help arrives, or you are too exhausted to continue.
8. Use an AED if Available:
If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available, turn it on and follow the instructions.
Use the AED as soon as it is available, but do not delay CPR to find one.
9. Treat for Hypothermia:
If the person is cold, remove wet clothing and cover them with dry blankets or clothing to prevent hypothermia.
Be gentle, as rough handling can trigger cardiac arrest in a hypothermic person.
10. Monitor and Support:
Even if the person revives, monitor their condition until emergency services arrive.
Keep the person lying down and as calm and comfortable as possible.
11. Post-Rescue Care:
Once the person is stabilized, they need medical evaluation and care to address potential complications like water in the lungs, secondary drowning, or hypothermia.
Remember, prompt action is critical in drowning situations. The sooner effective first aid is provided, the better the chances of survival and recovery.
By following the aforementioned steps, you will greatly increase the chances of survival for any drowning victim.
Comments