Drowning/Submersion Injury - Pediatric Pearls

What submersion history counts in pediatric drowning?

Submersion in water regardless of depth.

What trauma history is asked about in pediatric drowning?

Possible trauma, such as a diving board injury.

What timing history is obtained in pediatric drowning?

Duration of immersion.

What water temperature history is obtained in pediatric drowning?

Temperature of water or possibility of hypothermia.

What water quality history is obtained in pediatric drowning?

Degree of water contamination.

What injury should you have a high index of suspicion for in drowning?

Possible spinal injuries.

What condition is often associated with drowning and submersion injuries?

Hypothermia.

Which drowning victims should be transported for evaluation?

All victims.

Why should all drowning victims be transported?

Potential for worsening over the next several hours.

When may pulmonary edema develop after submersion?

Minutes to hours after submersion.

What causes pulmonary edema after submersion?

Inflammation/irritation of the respiratory tract from the submersion fluid.

What should the drowning patient be monitored for?

Signs/symptoms of pulmonary edema.

What is the guardian told if transport is refused after drowning?

The symptoms that may develop and the need to call EMS immediately.

What PEEP should be considered when intubating a drowning patient?

5 to 10 cm.