5 Emergency steps to save a drowning child and common mistakes to avoid

According to Dr. Đinh Thị Thu Phương, Deputy Head of the Pediatrics & Neonatology at Hanoi French Hospital (HFH), the first few minutes after a child experiences drowning are the “golden window” for resuscitation – a critical period that directly determines the child’s chances of survival and recovery.

Incorrect first-aid techniques can lead to prolonged brain hypoxia (oxygen deprivation), which may result in death or severe neurological complications, even if the child later receives intensive care at a hospital.

Common and dangerous mistakes in drowning First aid:

• Hoisting the child upside down in hopes of expelling water: This does not help expel water from the lungs and may cause stomach contents to enter the airway, wasting precious time needed for effective resuscitation.
• Stopping CPR too early: Do not discontinue cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if the child has not resumed breathing.
• Being complacent when the child regains consciousness: Even if the child appears to recover, they still need to be taken to a medical facility for a full assessment and to monitor for potential complications such as pneumonia.

5 Proper First-aid steps when a child drowns:

 Step 1: Call for help immediately

• Shout for assistance from people nearby
• Call emergency services (115 in Vietnam) as soon as possible

 Step 2: Safely remove the child from the water

• Use available tools such as life buoys, sticks, poles, or floating objects
• If safe, bring the child to shore directly

Step 3: Quickly assess the child’s condition

• Place the child on a dry, well-ventilated surface
• Gently shake or call the child to check responsiveness
• If spinal injury is suspected (e.g. from diving), stabilize the neck with a rolled towel, sandbags, or other support, and ensure the airway is opened safely

Step 4: If the child is unconscious and not breathing — begin CPR immediately

• Open the airway: Tilt the head back and lift the chin (do not perform this step if cervical spine injury is suspected)
• Check for breathing: Look for chest movement, listen for breath sounds, and feel for airflow
• If there is no breathing:
  • Give 5 rescue breaths
  • Perform 30 chest compressions:
    • Keep arms perpendicular to the chest
    • Position hands on the lower half of the sternum
    • Compress to a depth of 1/3 to 1/2 of the chest’s front-to-back diameter
    • Maintain a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute
  • Continue cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until the child regains consciousness or medical personnel arrive

 Step 5: Once the child regains consciousness

• Place them in the recovery position (lying on their side) with a small pillow or support under the shoulders
• Loosen clothing, dry and keep the child warm
• Take the child to the nearest medical facility for a full evaluation
• Monitor breathing and circulation closely during transport — ideally with medical personnel accompanying

Prevention is Better Than Cure – Drowning Safety Tips for Families:

• Never leave a child unsupervised near bodies of water such as ponds, lakes, or rivers
• Fence off water sources around the home and put up visible warning signs
• Ensure children are always accompanied by an adult when swimming, and choose pools with certified lifeguards
• Schools and families should work together to teach children life skills — especially swimming and basic first aid
• Every adult should be equipped with basic drowning first aid knowledge to act promptly in emergencies

At the Department of Pediatrics & Neonatology, Hanoi French Hospital, we understand that unexpected accidents can happen at any time. Our pediatricians are on duty 24/7, supported by state-of-the-art medical equipment and strict emergency protocols, ensuring timely and effective treatment. HFH is a trusted place for parents to bring their children in emergency situations such as drowning, trauma, or seizures due to high fever….