In cases of near drowning, what is the most critical intervention to perform immediately?

In cases of near drowning, the most critical intervention to perform immediately is to start CPR without delay. When a person has been submerged in water and is unresponsive, their ability to breathe can be severely compromised. Water can enter the lungs, preventing the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, which may lead to respiratory failure and cardiac arrest.

Initiating CPR quickly is vital because successful outcomes in drowning cases are highly time-dependent. CPR helps to maintain blood flow and oxygen to vital organs, increasing the chance of survival and reducing the risk of brain injury. Starting CPR as soon as possible can help to reverse the effects of hypoxia and restore normal physiological function.

While checking for responsiveness and airway is important, this assessment can be incorporated into the sequence of actions before starting CPR. Similarly, administering oxygen and calling for additional EMS support are also critical components of the overall emergency response, but they should not delay the immediate action of starting CPR when the patient is unresponsive or not breathing.

This response highlights the priority given to CPR in scenarios involving near drowning, emphasizing the urgency of immediate action to address the compromised airway and circulation effectively.