When a person has drowned, it is a critical situation that requires immediate medical attention. Administering first aid is an important step to take before medical help arrives, and is the best way to ensure the patient has the best chance of survival. This article will explain how to administer first aid to a person who has drowned.
Assessing the Situation
The first step when administering first aid to a person who has drowned is to assess the situation. Check for signs of unresponsiveness, such as no breathing or pulse. If the person is unresponsive, call 911 and begin CPR. If the person is responsive, assess for other causes of the drowning, such as a heart attack or stroke.
Administering First Aid
Once the situation has been assessed, the next step is to administer first aid. Move the person to a safe area and lay them on their back. Check the person’s airway, breathing, and circulation. If the person is not breathing, begin CPR. If the person is breathing, provide oxygen if available. Monitor the person’s vital signs until medical help arrives.
Knowing how to administer first aid to a person who has drowned is an important skill that can help save lives. Be sure to assess the situation and administer first aid according to the steps outlined in this article. It is also critical to get medical help as soon as possible.