Drowning and Cold Water Resuscitation

Which statement best defines near drowning?

• Temporary survival after submersion

• Immediate death from suffocation

• Aspiration of large volumes

• No water enters the airways

In wet drowning, what primarily occurs in the airways?

• Water is aspirated into lungs

• Airways close without fluid

• Gastric contents are inhaled

• Only froth forms at mouth

Which scenario illustrates secondary drowning?

• Resuscitated but later dies

• Dies immediately on scene

• Never loses consciousness

• Leaves hospital the same day

A teenager is pulled from cold water pulseless after 20 minutes. What is the most appropriate action?

• Begin resuscitation efforts

• Cease care due to delay

• Warm then wait to assess

• Ventilate without compressions

Which change is part of the mammalian diving reflex in cold water?

• Slowed breathing and heart rate

• Accelerated cardiac output

• Peripheral blood flow increase

• Metabolism rises significantly

Why can some cold-water drowning victims be resuscitated up to 30 minutes later?

• Reduced metabolism preserves brain

• Lungs store extra oxygen reserves

• Warm water improves circulation

• Adrenaline prevents tissue hypoxia

Which action is recommended when first attempting to reach a drowning person from land?

• Hold out or throw an object to grasp

• Jump in and tow them to the edge

• Dive headfirst to reach them quickly

• Swim behind and apply a cross-chest carry

In what situation is it appropriate for an untrained rescuer to enter the water for a drowning victim?

• Only in very shallow water with stable bottom

• In deep water if you can dog paddle

• Whenever the person is panicking loudly

• If the weather is calm and sunny

Why should a rescuer wear a personal flotation device (PFD) during a water rescue attempt?

• To maintain buoyancy and reduce rescuer risk

• To signal EMS with reflective patches

• To keep clothes dry and comfortable

• To restrain the victim during transport

A bystander sees a nonresponsive person floating face down in a pool. Which sequence best reflects priority actions?

• Activate EMS, remove from water, assess ABCs

• Search for family, call later, wait for help

• Provide water to drink, then call a lifeguard

• Start chest compressions while still submerged