Quick Answer
For a drowning victim, CPR techniques focus on chest compressions and rescue breaths to restore blood circulation and oxygenation. Use the 30:2 compression-to-breath ratio, with 30 chest compressions followed by two breaths. Ensure a firm but not too hard chest compression to avoid damaging the victim's heart.
Basic CPR for Drowning Victims
When performing CPR on a drowning victim, it’s essential to maintain a clear airway. Lift the victim’s chin to open their airway and tilt their head back, ensuring the spinal cord is not put at risk. Use a firm but not too hard chest compression, aiming for 2-3 inches of depth.
Performing Chest Compressions
The American Heart Association recommends using the 30:2 compression-to-breath ratio for adult CPR. For children, the ratio is 30:2, while infants require 30:3 chest compressions followed by a breath. Start with 30 chest compressions, then give two breaths, making sure each breath is one second long and has a tidal volume of 500-700 milliliters.
Breathing Techniques for CPR
Use a bag-valve-mask (BVM) device to provide rescue breaths, if available. If not, you can give breaths by pinching the victim’s nose shut and giving two breaths, as described above. Make sure each breath is one second long and has a tidal volume of 500-700 milliliters. Repeat the cycle of 30 chest compressions followed by two breaths until emergency medical services arrive.
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