Rescue breathing is needed for drowning victims who are not breathing adequately or have stopped breathing entirely. Here’s when and how it’s applied:

When Rescue Breathing Is Needed:

  1. No Breathing or Agonal Breaths:
    • If the victim is unresponsive and not breathing or only gasping (agonal breathing), start rescue breathing immediately.
  2. Before Starting Chest Compressions:
    • For drowning victims, hypoxia (lack of oxygen) is the primary problem. Providing oxygen through rescue breaths is crucial.
    • Rescue breathing should be given before starting chest compressions, as the primary issue is often airway obstruction by water, not a cardiac issue.
  3. After Clearing the Airway:
    • If the airway is blocked by water, vomit, or debris, clear it before administering rescue breaths.

Steps for Rescue Breathing in Drowning:

  1. Check Responsiveness:
    • Tap the victim and shout to see if they respond.
  2. Call for Help:
    • Activate emergency medical services (EMS) immediately.
  3. Open the Airway:
    • Tilt the head back and lift the chin to open the airway.
  4. Provide Rescue Breaths:
    • Pinch the victim’s nose shut.
    • Create a seal over their mouth with your mouth.
    • Give 2 slow breaths, each lasting about 1 second, watching for the chest to rise.
  5. If Chest Does Not Rise:
    • Reopen the airway and try again.
  6. Check for Pulse and Breathing:
    • If there is a pulse but no breathing, continue rescue breathing at a rate of 1 breath every 5-6 seconds (for adults) or 1 breath every 3-5 seconds (for children and infants).
  7. If No Pulse:
    • Begin CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation): Combine chest compressions with rescue breathing (30 compressions to 2 breaths for adults, children, and infants).

Importance of Rescue Breathing:

Drowning victims often suffer from hypoxia, so providing oxygen through rescue breaths is critical to restoring breathing and preventing brain damage or death. Immediate action can save lives.