What is the primary first aid method for a near drowning accident?

In the case of a near drowning accident, the primary first aid method is immediate rescue breathing and CPR. This approach is critical because, during drowning incidents, the victim can potentially lose consciousness, and their ability to breathe can become compromised due to water in the lungs and the cessation of effective respiratory function.

Rescue breathing is essential to provide oxygen to the victim’s lungs, especially if they are not breathing on their own. It's vital to restore their oxygen levels quickly to prevent brain damage or death due to hypoxia. Following the rescue breathing, if the victim remains unresponsive or has no pulse, CPR must be initiated immediately to circulate blood and maintain vital organ function until professional medical help arrives.

Warming the patient is also an important consideration in the overall care of a near drowning victim, particularly if they are exhibiting signs of hypothermia, but it is not the primary first aid measure. Chest compressions alone may not address the critical need for oxygenation and are part of the CPR sequence. Finally, while calling emergency services is an essential step in the process and needs to be done as soon as possible, it should not replace immediate life-saving interventions such as rescue breathing and CPR, which must happen on the scene to maximize the chances of survival