Análisis de las fases del rescate acuático como elemento discriminativo del rendimiento / Analysis of the phases of lifesaving as a discriminative element of performance

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The aim of this study was to analyze the different phases of a water rescue, their influence in the whole lifesavingand if lifeguards could be differentiated according to their abilities during a water rescue.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out to analyze the different phases and lifeguard’sabilities of a simulated water rescue of 100 m. Thirty-fourprofessional lifeguards performed the test and the time was recorded for the first phase (swimming to the victim), the second phase (towing back the victim) and the third phase (extracting the victim). A discriminant analysis was conducted in order to classifylifeguards in two groups (high or medium level of abilities during the water rescue) and the times were compared on each phase.Results: The time during the second and the third phase classify correctly the lifeguards according to their level of abilities. Lifeguards with higher level of abilities performed the water rescue significantly faster, specifically during the second (p < 0.001, ES =1.38, large) and the third phase (p =0.002, ES = 1.09, medium), but no differences were found in the first part of the water rescue (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The time of a simulated water rescue seems to bea good method to classify lifeguards according to their abilities. These findings could allow rescue teams to know the skills of their lifeguards and design strategiesin order to decrease risks and enhance lifesaving (AU)

RESUMEN

Objetivo: Analizar las diferentes fases del rescate para conocer su influencia sobre el resultado final y categorizar a los socorristas de acuerdo a su competencia acuática.Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cruzado simulando un rescate a 100 metros con 34 socorristas, analizando las tres fases del rescate nado hacia la víctima, traslado a tierra y extracción. Se realizó un análisis discriminante para clasificar a los socorristas según el tiempo de rescate.Resultados: La segunda y la tercera fase clasificó correctamente a los socorristas de acuerdo al tiempo empleado. La mayor competencia fue determinada especialmente en la segunda fase del salvamento (p<0,001, TE=1,38, grande) y en menor medida de la tercera fase (p=0,002, TE=1,09, mediano).Conclusión: El tiempo empleado en la segunda fase parece ser un buen método para clasificar la competencia de los socorristas durante el rescate. Estos hallazgos proporcionan información relevante para el entrenamiento y organización de equipos de rescate (AU)