What is a true statement about adult drowning patients?

The statement that indicates the colder the water, the better the chances of survival in either salt or fresh water drowning is grounded in the concept of the mammalian dive reflex. This physiological response is activated in mammals, including humans, when immersed in cold water, leading to a series of adaptations that can help preserve vital organ function and extend the time a person can survive without oxygen. Hypothermia can slow the metabolism and reduce oxygen requirements of the brain and heart, which can increase the chances of survival even after prolonged submersion.

Survival rates in cold water can be significantly higher, especially if the person is quickly rescued, provided they have not suffered from secondary drowning complications. This is contrary to the belief that cold water increases the risk of fatal outcomes, as figures show favorable survival statistics in such cases under the right circumstances.

This understanding underscores why colder water can sometimes lead to improved survival outcomes compared to warmer water, where victims may drown more quickly due to increased metabolic demands.