Drowning management and prevention.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Accidental drowning causes over 300 deaths annually in Australia, and many more instances of 'near drowning'. OBJECTIVE: This article outlines the management of near drowning and the general practitioner's role in drowning prevention. DISCUSSION: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is the mainstay of immediate management. Continuing CPR for 30 minutes if necessary is appropriate, particularly in hypothermic patients. Patients who have been successfully resuscitated and those with clinical features suggesting aspiration should be given 100% oxygen and transferred to hospital. Drowning prevention is a significant public health issue, and the GP's role in education and support of rescue services and public awareness campaigns is important.