OBJECTIVE:
Drowning is a leading cause of death among children. Unique physiological and behavioral factors contribute to high mortality rates. Drowning incidents predominantly occur during warmer months.Our aim was to describe the characteristics of pediatric drowning victims who attended 2 emergency departments,near and distant from the sea coast, to recognize risk factors, complications, causes of death, and the educational needs.
METHODS:
Retrospective cohort analysis of incident history, clinical presentation, treatments, and outcomes of drowning victims was performed. Data were analyzed both by age group and proximity of institution to the sea coast.
RESULTS:
From 2005 to 2015, 70 drowning patients presented to the 2 institutions; there was no difference in incident history or outcomes based on proximity to the sea coast. Fifty-six percent of patients were younger than 6 years, the majority drowning in pools. More of the older children drowned in the sea (48% vs 23%). Half of all patients were treated in the ED or ward, and half were treated in the pediatric intensive care unit; 12 suffered severe complications, including 5 diagnosed with brain death. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was performed in 80% of the fatal group and 23% of the nonfatal group (P = 0.006).
DISCUSSION:
Most of patients younger than 6 years drowned in swimming pools, suggesting that parents are less vigilant in these circumstances, even though they may remain in close proximity. Active adult supervision entails attention, proximity, and continuity. Educational efforts should be aimed at reminding parents of this, especially in the summer months.
