Immediate measures Immediately make an emergency call! (Call 112) – As with any emergency, every second counts when rescuing drowning victims. If possible, two people should rescue the drowned person. ONE helper only puts himself in danger (consider self-protection!). If the person is in panic, the rescuer should first try to hand him a floating … Drowning: Therapy
Pathogenesis (development of disease) Typical drowning is divided into the following sequential stages of suffocation: Pre-submersion: Stage of inspiration (inhalation of air) at the water surface. After sinking: Willful cessation of breathing (apnea phase) → accumulation of CO2 (carbon dioxide) in the blood (hypercapnia). CO2 retention irritates the respiratory center and causes another gasp for … Drowning: Causes
The following are the major diseases or complications that may be contributed to by near drowning: Respiratory system (J00-J99) Pulmonary (affecting the lungs) damage – e.g., pulmonary edema (accumulation of water in the lungs). Cardiovascular (I00-I99). Cardiac arrhythmias (HRS) – due to hypothermia (hypothermia). Psyche – nervous system (F00-F99; G00-G99). Brain damage – due to … Drowning: Complications
If near drowning occurs because of an accident, the Glasgow Coma Scale should be performed to assess level of consciousness: Traumatic brain injury (TBI). Glasgow Coma Scale Unconsciousness Mild TBI 13-15 points up to 15 minutes Moderately severe TBI 9-12 points up to one hour Severe TBI 3-8 points > 1 hour Glasgow Coma Scale, … Drowning: Examination
To prevent drowning, attention must be paid to reducing individual risk factors. Typical drowning Behavioral causes Consumption of stimulants Alcohol – reaction capacity and coordination ability of the drowning person are reduced as a result. Drug use Poor physical condition Inexperienced swimmers Overestimation of their own strength Cocky behavior Prevention factors The following preventive measures … Drowning: Prevention
The following symptoms and complaints may indicate “typical drowning”: Vertical position of the drowning victim in the water. The victim tries to push the water away from under him, he steps down. Due to an onset of shock breathing, the head is placed in the neck. Drowning people do not respond to a shout, because … Drowning: Symptoms, Complaints, Signs
