Drowning is a common accident that can cause asphyxia and hypoxia. For example, if the heartbeat stops, it is called “drowning”. If the heartbeat does not stop, it is called “almost drowning”. This classification is important for estimating the condition and prognosis, but the treatment principles are basically the same, so it is collectively referred to as drowning.
first aid
1. After lifting the injured person out of the water, immediately remove the water, mud, and dirt from their mouth and nasal cavity. Wrap your fingers in gauze (handkerchief) and pull the injured person’s tongue out of the mouth. Loosen the buttons and collar to keep the respiratory tract unobstructed. Then lift the injured person’s waist and abdomen, with their back facing up and their head hanging down, and pour water.
Alternatively, pick up the injured person’s legs, place their abdomen on the rescuer’s shoulder, and run quickly to pour out the accumulated water. Or the rescuer can take a half kneeling position, place the injured person’s abdomen on the rescuer’s leg, let their head hang down, and use their hands to press their back flat to pour water.
2. Those who have stopped breathing should immediately undergo artificial respiration, and oral blowing is generally the best option. The first responder is positioned on the side of the injured person, supporting their jaw, pinching their nostrils, taking a deep breath, and slowly blowing air into their mouth. When their chest is slightly lifted, they release their nostrils and use one hand to press their chest to assist in exhaling. Repeatedly and rhythmically (blowing 16-20 times per minute) until breathing is restored.
3. Patients with cardiac arrest should first undergo chest compressions. Let the injured person lie on their back, place a hard board on their back, lower their head and tilt back later. The rescuer should be on one side of the injured person, facing the injured person. Place the right palm flat on the lower part of their sternum, and the left hand on the back of the right hand. Use the weight of the rescuer’s body to slowly apply force, not too hard, to prevent a fracture. Press down the sternum by about 4 centimeters, then release the wrist (without leaving the sternum) to restore the sternum. Repeat rhythmically (60-80 times per minute) until the heartbeat returns.
