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Related Experiment Videos

In-water resuscitation: a pilot evaluation.

Gavin D Perkins1

  • 1Division of Medical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK. gavin.perkins@virgin.net

Resuscitation
|May 28, 2005
PubMed
Summary

In-water unsupported rescue breathing is a feasible technique for lifeguards to manage drowning victims, providing initial ventilation without significantly delaying rescue times. This method offers a potential intervention when immediate access to land is not possible.

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Area of Science:

  • Emergency Medicine
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
  • Drowning Victim Management

Background:

  • Hypoxia is a critical concern for drowning victims, necessitating rapid artificial ventilation.
  • Emerging evidence suggests benefits of initiating resuscitation in the water.
  • This pilot study investigates in-water unsupported rescue breathing.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the feasibility of in-water unsupported rescue breathing.
  • To evaluate the efficacy of this technique in simulated drowning rescues.
  • To determine if in-water resuscitation prolongs rescue duration.

Main Methods:

  • Three lifeguards were trained in in-water unsupported rescue breathing.
  • Ventilation volume and duration were measured using a manikin.
  • Rescue time was compared with and without in-water resuscitation over 50m.

Main Results:

  • Lifeguards performed 7-9 ventilations per rescue, with average volumes ranging from 629-750 ml and durations of 0.6-0.9s.
  • In-water resuscitation increased rescue duration from 70 to 84 seconds.
  • No undue prolongation of rescue time was observed.

Conclusions:

  • In-water unsupported rescue breathing is feasible and potentially effective for apnoeic victims in deep water.
  • The technique does not significantly extend rescue duration over 50m.
  • Consideration of in-water rescue breathing is advised when dry land access is delayed, though open water efficacy requires further study.

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