Drowning Vs. Near-Drowning Why CPR for Water-Related Emergencies is Different
Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death worldwide, but did you know that CPR for drowning differs from CPR for sudden cardiac arrest on land? Understanding the right techniques—especially the importance of rescue breaths—can mean the difference between life and death. Let’s break it down for you!
Drowning vs. Near-Drowning: What's the Difference?
Drowning: When someone is submerged and unable to breathe, resulting in death if not rescued in time.
Near-Drowning: Survival after submersion doesn't mean the danger is over—life-threatening complications can occur hours later.
Drowning Statistics You Should Know
- Over 4,500 people die from drowning each year in the U.S.—a 500-person annual increase since 2019.
- Drowning is the #1 cause of unintentional injury death for children aged 1–4.
- For every drowning death, there are 4-5 near-drowning incidents that require medical intervention.
- Secondary drowning can develop hours after a near-drowning and is often fatal if untreated.
(Source: CDC, WHO, American Red Cross)
Immediate Response for a drowning victim
- Ensure Safety – Before jumping in, make sure you’re not putting yourself in danger. Use a flotation device or reach for the person instead of swimming out if possible.
- Call 911 Immediately – Time is critical! Brain damage can occur in just 4-6 minutes due to lack of oxygen.
- Check for Breathing – If the person isn’t breathing, begin CPR immediately with rescue breaths.
CPR for a drowning victim: Why rescue breaths are critical.
Chest compressions alone are NOT enough—you must provide rescue breaths due to oxygen deprivation (hypoxia).
Near-Drowning: The Hidden Danger of Secondary Drowning
After a near-drowning event, symptoms like persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue, or a bluish tint to skin or lips could indicate secondary drowning.
What to do for a near-drowning victim:
- Keep them calm and warm.
- Monitor for delayed symptoms – Seek medical attention if any breathing issues arise.
- They should ALWAYS be evaluated by a doctor. Secondary drowning can be fatal if untreated.
Be ready to save a life – get trained in CPR
Drowning incidents happen fast—but YOU can be the difference. Get trained in CPR for drowning victims and be ready to act in emergencies.
At BESTCPRUSA, we offer in-person CPR training for both individuals and businesses! We provide community classes in our various locations and customized training for workplaces. Let us empower you with life-saving skills.
Empowering communities with life-saving skills. We also offer classes in Spanish!
Empoderando a las comunidades con habilidades que salvan vidas. ¡También ofrecemos clases en español!
Conclusion
What to do for a near-drowning victim:
- Keep them calm and warm.
- Monitor for delayed symptoms – Seek medical attention if any breathing issues arise.
- They should ALWAYS be evaluated by a doctor. Secondary drowning can be fatal if untreated.
Be ready to save a life – get trained in CPR
Drowning incidents happen fast—but YOU can be the difference. Get trained in CPR for drowning victims and be ready to act in emergencies.
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