When should a drowning victim be assessed for breathing?

Assessing a drowning victim for breathing as soon as they are rescued is crucial for several reasons. The primary concern in a drowning scenario is the victim's ability to breathe effectively, as drowning can lead to respiratory failure or hypoxia due to water aspiration.

Immediate assessment allows first responders to determine the need for urgent interventions, such as rescue breaths or chest compressions. The sooner this assessment is made, the quicker necessary life-saving measures can be taken. If a victim is found breathing normally, it provides reassurance and allows for monitoring of their condition, while an absence of normal breathing would indicate a need for immediate CPR and advanced medical support.

Delaying the assessment until the individual is at the hospital could result in life-threatening complications if the victim is not breathing. Additionally, waiting to assess until the victim is unconscious or after a significant delay ignores the critical timeframe during which interventions can be most effective, potentially jeopardizing the victim’s outcome.