Near Drowning - Emergency Management

Near Drowning

·        Effective immediate resuscitation critical.  Use standard CPR procedure

·        Remove foreign bodies from airways, don‟t attempt to drain fluid

·        Suspect spinal injury if diving or in surf

·        Early tracheal intubation may be indicated.  100% O2

·        Recovery may occur even after long immersion times, especially in cold water

·        In hospital, cerebral oedema may require hyperventilation and diuretics

·        Remember, alcohol or epilepsy may be involved

·        Avoid steroids, consider antibiotics