A patient has been pulled from a pool in which he was submerged for several minutes. He is pulseless and apneic. An Emergency Medical Responder asks you if you want to press on the man's abdomen to remove the water from his stomach. What is the most appropriate reply?

The most important treatment for drowning victims is rescue breathing. This should be provided as soon as possible, even before the victim is pulled from the water.  When responding to a drowning victim, EMS should prioritize: Effective ventilation, Oxygenation, and Chest compressions.  If the victim is unconscious but breathing, place them in a recovery position and assess for adequate airway maintenance and ventilation. If the victim is pulseless, immediately begin CPR.  For diving emergencies, you should first establish ABCs, then rinse the wound with clean water and immerse in hot... Show more

The most important treatment for drowning victims is rescue breathing. This should be provided as soon as possible, even before the victim is pulled from the water. 
When responding to a drowning victim, EMS should prioritize: Effective ventilation, Oxygenation, and Chest compressions. 
If the victim is unconscious but breathing, place them in a recovery position and assess for adequate airway maintenance and ventilation. If the victim is pulseless, immediately begin CPR. 
For diving emergencies, you should first establish ABCs, then rinse the wound with clean water and immerse in hot water (110°F-113°F/43.3°C-45°C) for 30 to 90 minutes. Extract obvious pieces of barbs, then conduct pain management as needed. 

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