How to Administer Proper First Aid After Drowning
Drowning—also referred to as submersion injury—is a condition in which a person is immersed in water or another liquid medium and sustains injury. Water entering the airways and alveoli causes hypoxic asphyxia; water absorbed into the bloodstream alters blood osmotic pressure, induces electrolyte imbalances, and damages tissues; ultimately leading to respiratory arrest and cardiac arrest, resulting in death. So, how should one correctly administer first aid after drowning? The following section addresses this question.
How to Administer Correct First Aid After Drowning
1. Clear Obstructions from the Mouth and Nose
After rescuing the drowning victim onto land, position them with their head lowered downward. Immediately pry open their teeth and use your fingers to remove any debris from the mouth and nasal passages. Then rapidly and repeatedly strike the victim’s back between the shoulder blades with the palm of your hand to clear the airway and ensure the tongue does not retract and obstruct the airway.
2. Drain Water from the Respiratory Tract
Place the drowning victim face-down across the rescuer’s shoulder, allowing the head and feet to hang downward. The rescuer then jogs or runs briskly to facilitate drainage of water from the respiratory tract. Note: Draining time should be kept brief to avoid delaying cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
3. Artificial Respiration
Position the drowning victim supine with the head slightly elevated and tilted backward to straighten the trachea. Support the victim’s jaw with one hand while pinching shut the nostrils with the other hand to prevent air leakage. Place your mouth over the victim’s mouth and deliver breaths directly. After each breath, turn your head to the side to inhale fresh air. Once the victim’s chest rises, stop blowing, release the nostrils, and gently compress the chest to assist exhalation. Repeat this cycle approximately once every five seconds.
Additional Information: Key Precautions
1. Exercise Caution Before Entering the Water
Rescuers unfamiliar with swimming or unaware of local water conditions should refrain from entering the water and instead call for help or alert emergency services. Minors should not attempt water rescues.
2. Always Approach the Drowning Victim from Behind
Swim to a position approximately 3–5 meters behind the drowning victim. Take a deep breath and submerge underwater. From behind, insert one arm under the victim’s armpit and grasp their opposite hand, or alternatively support their head. Use a backstroke technique to tow the victim safely to shore. Crucially, ensure the victim’s head remains above water throughout transport. Never approach from the front, as the victim may instinctively grab onto you, impairing your ability to swim and potentially causing both of you to sink.
The above outlines proper first-aid procedures following drowning. We hope this information proves helpful.
