Drowning is a terrifying and potentially life-threatening event that can happen suddenly and silently. When someone has drowned, prompt action is crucial to their survival. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for drowning victims follows specific guidelines designed to address the unique challenges presented by submersion in water. In this blog post, we will outline the step-by-step guidelines for performing CPR on a drowning victim to maximize their chances of recovery.
1. Ensure Safety
Before attempting to rescue a drowning victim, ensure your safety. Do not enter the water if it's not safe to do so, especially if there are strong currents or other hazards. Call for professional help immediately if available, such as lifeguards or emergency services.
2. Remove the Victim from the Water
If it's safe to do so, remove the victim from the water as quickly as possible. Use a flotation device or reach out to them with a long object (such as a pool skimmer or a tree branch) to help them stay afloat without putting yourself at risk.
3. Assess Responsiveness
Check if the victim is responsive by tapping them and shouting loudly, "Are you okay?" If there is no response, assume they are unresponsive and require CPR.
4. Call for Help
If you are alone and have access to a phone, call 911 (or your local emergency number) before starting CPR. If someone else is present, instruct them to call for help immediately while you begin CPR.
5. Check for Breathing
Position the victim on their back on a firm surface and ensure their airway is clear of any obstructions. Tilt their head backward and lift the chin to open the airway. Lean down close to the victim's mouth and nose, look for chest rise and fall, and listen for the sounds of breathing. Do this for no more than 10 seconds. If the victim is not breathing or is only gasping for air (which can be a sign of cardiac arrest), it's time to initiate CPR.
6. Begin CPR
Start CPR by following the "C-A-B" sequence:
- C (Compressions): Begin with chest compressions. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the victim's chest, just below the nipple line. Place your other hand on top of the first hand, interlocking your fingers. Keep your elbows straight and position your shoulders directly above your hands. Compress the chest hard and fast, aiming for a depth of at least 2 inches but not exceeding 2.4 inches. Compress the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.
- A (Airway): After 30 chest compressions, give two rescue breaths. First, open the victim's airway by tilting their head backward and lifting the chin. Next, pinch the victim's nose shut, create a seal over their mouth with yours, and blow air into their lungs until you see the chest rise. Each breath should last about one second and make the chest visibly rise. Repeat this process for a total of two rescue breaths.
- B (Breathing): After delivering the two rescue breaths, resume chest compressions immediately. Continue with cycles of 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.
7. Continue Until Help Arrives
Continue performing CPR until one of the following occurs:
- Professional medical help arrives and takes over.
- The victim starts breathing normally.
- You are too exhausted to continue.
Remember, drowning victims often need prolonged CPR due to the potential for cold water submersion and the delayed effects of water in the lungs. Continue CPR without interruptions until professional help arrives or the victim shows signs of recovery.
Drowning incidents can happen suddenly and demand swift and effective action. Knowing how to perform CPR on a drowning victim is a valuable skill that can save lives. By following these guidelines and initiating CPR promptly, you can maximize the chances of a positive outcome and provide the victim with the best possible chance of survival.