you are providing care to an adult who is unresponsive and not breathing as a result of a drowning. you give your first ventilation before performing cpr and notice that the chest does not rise. which of the following should you do next?
you are providing care to an adult who is unresponsive and not breathing as a result of a drowning. you give your first ventilation before performing cpr and notice that the chest does not rise. which of the following should you do next?
Answer: If you have given the first ventilation during rescue breaths to an unresponsive, non-breathing adult after a drowning incident and notice that the chest does not rise, you should immediately reposition the person’s head and try to give a second rescue breath. Follow these steps:
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Ensure the airway is clear: Tilt the person’s head back slightly while lifting the chin to open the airway. Look for any obvious obstructions such as foreign objects or vomit and remove them if present. Be cautious not to waste too much time doing this.
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Perform a head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver: Maintain an open airway by placing one hand on the person’s forehead and gently tilting their head back. With the other hand, lift the chin forward. This helps to align the airway for better ventilation.
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Give a second rescue breath: Pinch the person’s nose closed with your fingers, create a seal over their mouth with your mouth, and give a slow breath lasting about one second. Watch for chest rise as you deliver the breath.
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If the chest still does not rise: If the chest does not rise after the second rescue breath, reposition the person’s head, ensuring the airway is clear, and attempt another breath. If the chest still does not rise, it is likely that there is a physical obstruction preventing the air from entering the lungs.
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Begin CPR: If the chest does not rise despite repositioning and attempting rescue breaths, immediately begin CPR by starting chest compressions. Position your hands correctly on the lower half of the person’s sternum (breastbone) and compress the chest at a rate of about 100-120 compressions per minute. Continue with CPR until professional medical help arrives or until the person shows signs of life.
Remember, in a drowning situation, it is important to activate the emergency medical services (EMS) or call for professional medical assistance as soon as possible. CPR and rescue efforts should continue until help arrives.