Aspiration and Drowning

Abstract Summary Every year, more than 380,000 people worldwide die by drowning, making it the third leading cause of accidental death. Drowning is defined as primary respiratory impairment resulting from submersion/immersion in a liquid medium. Cardiac arrest is usually due to hypoxia, and therefore ventilatory support is essential. Moreover, the victims of drowning by submersion are at risk of developing acute respiratory distress syndrome. Early tracheal intubation and controlled ventilation should be considered for patients with a reduced level of consciousness or who are unresponsive to initial management. The most important factors affecting outcome are the duration of immersion, the water temperature, and the rhythm on presentation at hospital.