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Drowning with hypoxaemia — RCPSC EM MCQ

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ModerateEnvironmental emergenciesDrowning with hypoxaemiaRCPSC EM

A 22-year-old is rescued after a freshwater near-drowning. He is coughing, SpO2 91% on room air, RR 26, chest auscultation has crackles, and chest X-ray shows patchy infiltrates. What is the most appropriate disposition?

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Correct answer: D — Admission or monitored observation with oxygen because respiratory symptoms and hypoxaemia are present

Symptomatic drowning patients with hypoxaemia or abnormal respiratory findings require observation/admission; prophylactic antibiotics are not routine.

Reference: Wilderness Medical Society drowning guidance; Canadian emergency practice