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Drowning — DIPIMC MCQ

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ModerateResuscitationDrowningDIPIMCDipIMC

A young adult is pulled from a lake unresponsive and is not breathing normally. You are the first trained rescuer at the water's edge.

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

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Correct answer: C — Give five initial rescue breaths before starting chest compressions.

In drowning, hypoxia is the primary problem, so resuscitation begins with five initial rescue breaths before chest compressions, which reflects current guidance for all rescuers. Attempts to drain water from the lungs are ineffective and delay oxygenation. Compression-only resuscitation is not appropriate when the cause of arrest is asphyxial.

Reference: Resuscitation Council UK Guidelines (2025)