when drowning is the suspected cause of cardiac arrest, what should the responder do first?
When drowning is the suspected cause of cardiac arrest, what should the responder do first?
Answer:
When drowning is the suspected cause of cardiac arrest, the first thing the responder should do is ensure their own safety before attempting a rescue. It is important to approach the situation carefully to prevent further harm. Calling for emergency medical services should be the immediate priority to ensure professional help is on the way. Once the responder ensures their safety and calls for help, they should carefully move the person out of the water while supporting the person’s head and neck to prevent any spinal injuries. Starting CPR immediately after getting the person to a safe location is crucial to increase the chances of survival. Providing rescue breaths and chest compressions following the guidelines of CPR can help oxygenate the body and circulate blood to vital organs. It is essential to continue CPR until professional help arrives on the scene. Remember, early and effective CPR can significantly improve the person’s chances of recovery in such critical situations.