skip to main content

Drowning with hypoxaemia — RCPSC EM MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateEnvironmental emergenciesDrowning with hypoxaemiaRCPSC EM

A 6-year-old is pulled from a lake after submersion. He is coughing, oxygen saturation is 89% on room air, and chest auscultation reveals crackles. He improves to 94% on oxygen but remains tachypnoeic. What is the most appropriate disposition?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Admit or transfer for monitored care because respiratory symptoms and hypoxaemia persist

Admit or transfer for monitored care because respiratory symptoms and hypoxaemia persist is correct: the clues indicate Drowning with hypoxaemia and this option addresses the immediate ED priority. The distractors delay care, target a less likely problem, or are unsafe in this physiology.

Reference: PALS; Canadian drowning emergency practice