[Drowning in children]

Abstract

Drowning is one of the most common causes of death in children. Near-drowning is even more frequent: near-drowning/drowning ratio is approximately 9-10/1. The age-groups between 1 and 3 years and 15 and 25 years are most likely to be at risk for submersion accidents. The majority of drowning accidents in children occur in swimming pools and bathtubs. The awake or stuporous victim has an excellent prognosis. In comatose patients, the prognosis is directly proportional to the severity of coma. Treatment is mostly supportive. Despite optimal care, it is not infrequent for a near-drowning accident to end in death or severe neurological handicap. Prevention must be a priority for the medical profession.