First Aid-Lesson 10-Near drowning
Near drowning
Near-drowning is a term typically used to describe almost dying from suffocation underwater. It is the last stage before fatal drowning, which results in death. Near-drowning victims still require medical attention to prevent related health complications.
Most people who nearly drown are young children, but drowning accidents can happen to anyone of any age.
Near-drowning occurs when you’re unable to breathe underwater for a significant period of time. During near drowning, your body is cut off from oxygen to the point where major body systems can begin to shut down from the lack of oxygen flow. In some cases (particularly in young children), this can happen within seconds. The process typically takes longer in adults.
It’s important to remember that a person can be revived after being underwater for a long time.
Most near-drowning cases are attributed to accidents that occur in or near water. The most common causes of near drowning include:
- An inability to swim
- Panic in the water
- Leaving children unattended near bodies of water
- Leaving babies unattended, even for a short period of time, in bathtubs
- Falling through thin ice
- Alcohol consumption while swimming or on a boat
- Concussion, seizure, or heart attack while in water
- Suicide attempt
It’s a misconception that you’re safe if you’re larger than a body of water. You can drown in just a couple of inches of water.
First aid for near drowning
Near drowning can occur when people cannot swim properly, and you should only attempt to save the casualty from the water if it is safe to do so.
If the person has nearly drowned in cold water, remove their wet clothes and cover them in warm blankets or clothing to prevent hypothermia. Be careful to support the neck while removing clothing.
Use safety objects, such as life rings and throw ropes, to help the victim if they’re still conscious.
You should only enter the water to save an unconscious person if you have the swimming skills to safely do so.
All drowning casualties should be turned on their side to clear their airway.
It’s important to start rescue breathing as soon as possible if the person has stopped breathing. CPR involves giving oxygen to the person through mouth-to-mouth breathing. Chest compressions are equally important because they help increase oxygen delivery to the heart, preventing fatal complications.
Be very careful when handling the person and performing CPR, as the individual could have a neck or spinal injury. Do not move or turn their neck or head. Stabilise the neck by manually holding the head and neck in place or placing towels or other objects around the neck to support it.