Quick Answer
Yes, CPR can be used on children after drowning in pools, but it's essential to provide rescue breathing and chest compressions in the correct sequence and ratio.
Recognizing Drowning and Starting Rescue
When a child drowns in a pool, every second counts. Recognize the signs of drowning, such as the child’s body lying at the bottom of the pool or floating face-down. If you’re unable to reach the child in the water, use a flotation device to rescue them. Once out of the water, call 911 or your local emergency number and begin CPR if the child is not breathing or showing signs of circulation.
Providing CPR and Rescue Breathing
To provide CPR on a child, use the American Heart Association’s (AHA) recommended sequence and ratio: 30 chest compressions followed by two rescue breaths, at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Children typically require one-third the amount of air that adults do, so use one-third the volume of a standard breath. For a child, that’s an average of 10 to 12 mL of air per breath.
Special Considerations for Cold Water Rescue
If the child was submerged in cold water, be aware of the risks of cold shock and hypothermia. Cold water immersion can cause cardiac arrest and other complications. If you suspect the child has been in cold water, start CPR as soon as possible and continue until medical help arrives. Use a warm blanket or emergency blanket to keep the child warm, if possible, and avoid covering the head and neck areas.
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