Water Rescue and Treatment: What to Do After Drowning

Drowning is a silent and sudden threat, often occurring in a matter of seconds. Whether at a serene lake, bustling pool, or tumultuous beach, drowning incidents require immediate and precise action to save lives. This article explores a harrowing rescue and the critical first aid, medical tests, and life-saving procedures that followed.

A Quiet Afternoon Gone Wrong

It was a warm summer afternoon when Raj and his family visited Lake Serenity for a picnic. The children, including 10-year-old Avni, played by the water while the adults set up under a shady tree. Amidst laughter and splashing, nobody noticed when Avni ventured too far into the lake.

Suddenly, her brother’s scream pierced the air, “Avni’s under the water!” Chaos erupted as Raj sprinted toward the lake. Avni was floating face-down, her small body motionless.

Step 1: The Rescue

Getting Avni Out of the Water

Raj acted swiftly but cautiously, mindful of his own safety.

Approach Carefully: Raj avoided sudden movements that could risk his own safety in the water.
Proper Handling: Once he reached Avni, he supported her neck and head while keeping her body horizontal to avoid further harm.

The Role of Rescuers

Nearby lifeguards rushed to assist. Once onshore, they laid Avni on a flat surface and checked for signs of life. She wasn’t breathing, and her pulse was faint.

Step 2: Immediate First Aid

1. Clearing the Airway

The lifeguard turned Avni onto her side and cleared her mouth of debris and water.
Tilting her head back slightly, they ensured her airway was open.

2. Performing CPR

Chest Compressions: They began compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute, pressing down about 5 cm on her chest.
Rescue Breaths: After every 30 compressions, they gave two breaths, pinching her nose and ensuring her chest rose with each breath.

3. Monitoring Signs of Life

After a few minutes, Avni coughed weakly, expelling water, but remained unresponsive. CPR was continued until the ambulance arrived.

Step 3: En Route to the Hospital

The emergency medical team arrived within minutes and took over. Avni was placed on supplemental oxygen through a mask. Her vitals were monitored closely during transport to the hospital.

Step 4: Medical Evaluation

Upon arrival at the hospital, Avni underwent several critical tests:

1. Chest X-Ray

Purpose: To detect water in the lungs and assess for pulmonary edema (fluid buildup).
Findings: Avni’s X-ray revealed significant water accumulation in her lungs.

2. Oxygen Saturation Levels

Purpose: To determine how effectively oxygen was being delivered to her blood.
Findings: Low oxygen levels indicated a need for intensive respiratory support.

3. Blood Tests

Purpose: To check for imbalances in electrolytes or signs of organ damage caused by hypoxia (oxygen deprivation).

Step 5: Emergency Medical Procedures

1. Oxygen Therapy

Avni was placed on high-flow oxygen to ensure her body received adequate oxygen.

2. Intubation

To secure her airway, doctors inserted a tube into her trachea and connected it to a ventilator. This provided mechanical breathing support while her lungs recovered.

3. Fluid Management

Excess fluids in her lungs and bloodstream were carefully managed with diuretics and IV therapy to restore balance.

4. Monitoring for Secondary Complications

Dry Drowning: Delayed symptoms such as inflammation or spasm of the airways were monitored.
Infections: Antibiotics were administered to prevent respiratory infections caused by inhaled water.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Avni spent three days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Gradually, her oxygen levels stabilized, and she was weaned off the ventilator. During her recovery:

Respiratory Therapy: Exercises were introduced to strengthen her lungs.
Psychological Support: A therapist helped Avni and her family cope with the trauma of the incident.

Key Takeaways for Drowning Incidents

First Aid Steps

Remove from Water: Prioritize your safety while rescuing the victim.
Perform CPR Immediately: If there’s no breathing, begin chest compressions and rescue breaths.
Clear Airways: Remove debris and water from the mouth.

Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t delay CPR while waiting for medical professionals.
Avoid pressing on the abdomen to “squeeze out water” as it can harm internal organs.
Never assume recovery once water is expelled; always seek medical evaluation.

Conclusion

Avni’s story highlights the critical importance of timely action during drowning incidents. Whether you’re a parent, lifeguard, or bystander, knowing how to respond can save lives. From the initial rescue to advanced medical care, every step matters in giving someone a second chance.

Prepare yourself by learning CPR, understanding basic water safety, and always staying vigilant near water. One day, your knowledge and courage might turn tragedy into triumph, just as it did for Avni and her family.