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Non-fatal drowning — DipIMC MCQ

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EasyEnvironmental MedicineNon-fatal drowningDipIMC

A 19-year-old swimmer is rescued from cold sea water after 12 minutes submerged. He is coughing, hypothermic, oxygen saturations are 90% and he is confused but breathing. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

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

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Correct answer: D — Give oxygen, prevent further heat loss and arrange urgent hospital assessment

Drowning patients with hypoxia, confusion or hypothermia need oxygen, warming and hospital assessment because respiratory deterioration can occur later. Exercise and alcohol worsen physiology and assessment. Head-down drainage delays ventilation and risks aspiration. The pearl is that drowning is primarily a hypoxic injury, not a problem of water that needs draining.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines 2025; Resuscitation Council UK Special Circumstances Guidelines 2025