PADDLER 36
Scenario 1
PADDLER 36
Scenario 1
A kayaker has taken a nasty swim in a river or in the surf. When you reach them, they are not breathing. CPR for drowning.
Drowning is a time-critical emergency. If a paddler is pulled from the water and is not breathing, immediate action must be taken to revive them. Cold water immersion can cause cardiac arrest or laryngospasm( airway closure). In some cases, people can be revived even after prolonged submersion – especially in cold water.
INITIAL STEPS: l
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Check for responsiveness by shouting and gently shaking their shoulder. If there’ s no response, check for normal breathing for 10 seconds. If they’ re not breathing or breathing is abnormal( gasping), start CPR immediately.
PERFORMING CPR FOR A DROWNING CASUALTY: l Begin with five rescue breaths. Tilt the head back, pinch the nose, and give five full breaths into the l mouth. Then alternate 30 chest compressions and two rescue breaths. Chest compressions should be performed at a rate of 100 – 120 compressions per minute and with a depth of 5 – 6 cm. l Continue until the casualty starts breathing, professional help arrives, or you are too exhausted to continue. Remember, other team members can also assist in performing CPR.
Important: In suspected drowning, rescue breaths take priority. Providing oxygen is vital. If an AED( automated external defibrillator) is available, follow its voice prompts. If the chest is still wet, dry it quickly before applying the pads.
Call for emergency help early. Use 999 / 112, radio Channel 16 or a personal location beacon.