If a patient in cardiac arrest after being submerged in a pond has a distended abdomen, what should you do next?

In the scenario where a patient is in cardiac arrest after being submerged in water and presents with a distended abdomen, placing the patient on their side and firmly pressing on the abdomen is a critical step. This action assists in expelling any water that may have accumulated in the stomach and can help clear the airway, ensuring that the rescuer has a better chance to perform effective artificial ventilation or CPR.

When a patient has been submerged, water can enter the stomach, contributing to distension. If this distention is not addressed, it may inhibit effective chest compressions and artificial ventilations. By turning the patient to the side and applying pressure to the abdomen, rescuers can facilitate the removal of this water, thereby improving the chances of successful resuscitation efforts and clearing the airway.

In contrast, while immediate CPR and artificial ventilation are vital components of care for a patient in cardiac arrest, they may be less effective if the airway is obstructed or if excess water remains in the abdomen. Transporting the patient quickly is necessary, but addressing the distension first can make the transport and subsequent medical interventions more effective.