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Drowning with hypoxaemia — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateTraumaDrowning with hypoxaemiaMCCQE Part 1

A 7-year-old is rescued from a lake after submersion and coughs persistently. Oxygen saturation is 88% on room air and there are crackles bilaterally. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — Provide oxygen, assess for respiratory compromise and observe/admit according to severity

Drowning injury management focuses on oxygenation and respiratory monitoring because pulmonary oedema or aspiration injury may evolve. Prophylactic antibiotics are not routine unless contaminated-water infection features develop. Awake status alone does not justify discharge when hypoxaemia is present.

Reference: Canadian Paediatric Society injury/emergency practice; drowning resuscitation guidance