Near drowning: a report of 4 cases and review of literature

ABSTRACT

Four near drowning patients were admitted to intensive care unit [ICU] at Jordan University Hospital [JUH] during the last 3 years [1986-1989]. Their ages ranged between 1-17 years [mean 9 years], 3 were males and one was a female. They were managed in the ICU by hyperventilation, PEEP, muscle paralysis, thiopentone coma and steroids, with monitoring of arterial blood gases and central venous pressure. All recovered completely except one who had neurological deficit. None of the victims had received medical resuscitation at the site of the accident prior to admission, they all arrived by public transport, first aid was performed at the emergency room at our hospital. We believe that first aid at the site of drowning is vital for avoiding the effects of hypoxia