Course Overview

Calls related to submersion injuries are usually considered to be a low-probability scenario for the majority of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), manifesting in diverse environmental conditions where water remains the consistent element. Drownings present a challenge, demanding medical professionals to deploy a range of skills to address both the mortality and morbidity of patients. Globally, emergency medical systems contend with a myriad of submersion injuries and drowning fatalities annually.

This course will review the fundamental theories and procedures utilized by EMT personnel to assess and treat submersion injuries in the pre-hospital setting.

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Course Objectives

• Identify the leading factors that lead to drowning and submersion injuries.

• Explain modern-day drowning prevention methods to increase mortality.

• Understand the pathophysiology of drowning, the drowning process, and fatal hypoxia.

• Understand the basic principles of pathophysiology relevant to the treatment of submersion injuries.

• Explain methods that a professional rescuer can use to mitigate personal risk when responding to submersion injuries.