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Drowning resuscitation — DIPIMC MCQ

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ModerateResuscitationDrowning resuscitationDIPIMCDipIMC

You are called to a man pulled unconscious from a lake. He is not breathing normally and you cannot feel a pulse. Bystanders are present and an automated external defibrillator is on its way. How does the initial approach differ from standard adult resuscitation?

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

Drowning produces a primarily hypoxic arrest, so the resuscitation sequence is modified to give five initial rescue breaths before chest compressions, for all rescuers. Compression-only resuscitation does not address the central problem of hypoxia. Attempting to drain water with abdominal thrusts delays oxygenation and risks aspiration. Pearl: this five-breath modification also applies to the paediatric drowning victim.

Reference: Resuscitation Council UK Guidelines 2025 (Special Circumstances)