Once the child is on the shore you perform an A-E assessment. They are unresponsive, you tilt their head slightly to open the airway and listen for breath sounds for 10 seconds. There is no sign of breathing so you deliver 5 rescue breaths. Whilst keeping the airway open you place your mouth over their mouth and breathe out for a full breath. After repeating this 5 times the child begins to respond, coughing and opening their eyes.
You calmly talk to them and reassure them. You place them in the recovery position and wait for the ambulance to arrive.
Due to your prompt and careful assessment of the situation, you avoided potential dangers and managed to safely rescue the drowning child. Your quick thinking in using available floatation devices and immediately giving rescue breaths once on shore played a crucial role in the child's survival. When the paramedics arrive, they take over the care, and the child, though exhausted and frightened, begins to recover. The child is transported to the hospital for further evaluation and observation, and you receive commendation for your swift and effective response, which was instrumental in preventing a tragic outcome.
This incident underscores the importance of a calm and calculated approach to emergency situations. By assessing the danger first, you ensured your own safety and that of others leading to the successful rescue of the child. It also highlights the importance of knowing when to wait for professional rescuers if the conditions are too dangerous to act.
The successful rescue was a result of proper assessment, effective use of resources, and clear communication. Always remember that your safety is paramount. If a situation is too dangerous, it's crucial to wait for professional help rather than risk additional lives. This approach not only safeguards you but also ensures that the victim receives the best possible care.