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Drowning — ABEM Board MCQ

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ModerateEnvironmental emergenciesDrowningABEM Board

A 5-year-old child is brought after being submerged in a pool for 1 minute. Triage acuity is ESI 2; BP 94/56 mm Hg, HR 132/min, RR 34/min, SpO2 88%. He is coughing with bilateral crackles and mild lethargy. Temperature is 96.9 F. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

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

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Correct answer: E — Provide oxygen and ventilatory support with observation or admission based on respiratory status

Drowning injury is managed with oxygenation and ventilation; symptomatic hypoxemic patients require observation or admission.

Reference: AHA drowning resuscitation guidance; Wilderness Medical Society drowning guideline