Description
Drowning in children can be very painful for most cases. Preventing these cases is a very important aspect. Taking a look at this subject from time to time is a must in order to provided better options to prevent such accidents.
Drowning is the immediate cause of death due to asphyxia while submerged in a body of fluid. However, after the 2002 World Congress on Drowning, a new definition emerged. Drowning is now known as a process rather than an instant episode due to impaired respiratory system while being immersed in a body of fluid.
Drowning can actually happen in all ages; however a focus on children can be very handy. Children under 5 years old are more prone since they cannot swim yet. A deep bathtub can also be dangerous due to its depth and slippery surface. No one should have to go through anything like this, but unfortunately it does happen. With this being said, if you’re child has experienced any injuries from this incident and needed medical attention but you are not sure what to do next, it would help to check out a site like www.rbrlawfirm.com/personal-injury-lawyers/child-injury-attorney/ and get some advice from professional attorneys who know what they are talking about. They also know how important the safety of your child is.
Effects of near-drowning to the body:
- Cessation of breathing in which the blood circulation to the other systems such as the nervous system, respiratory system and cardiovascular system can compromise the body’s function
- Hypothermia ensues when the body is immersed on the body of fluid. The low temperature of the body can damage the system’s function.
Responding to Near-Drowning:
- Initial Response – The first aid is composed of retrieving the patient from the water, performing resuscitation. When the airway is established, the temperature of the human body must be maintained preventing hypothermia.
- Emergency Response- The second step is to bring the patient in the nearest emergency room department. The vital signs are not yet stable and the consciousness of the patient must be evaluated. Head injuries for instance must be attended since it can also affect the prognosis.
Outcomes of early response to near-drowning:
- The survival or recovery rate of a patient may differ according to the age, the body size as well as the length of time and temperature of the water or fluid that he or she was submerged.
- As airway is the first priority in the scene of near-drowning, the extent of brain damage may depend on the length of time that the patient did not receive enough oxygen that is enough for the brain to function. Brain damage is one of the complications of near-drowning that is reversible in mild type but very disarming in severe cases.
Key points to prevent near-drowning situations:
- Always accompany children whenever there are swimming pool, tub bath or near the sea shore. Any water related activities must be supervised by an adult who knows how to respond to certain emergency situations.
- Pools or hot tubs must be well fenced so that children could not get into it easily.
- As much as possible, whenever there are children around in family gatherings or excursions that involve water activities, avoid ingesting alcohol as it may interfere the adult’s judgment and ability to respond to situations.
- Take a class in cardiopulmonary response as much as possible as it is beneficial in all situations.