If you suspect your baby inhaled water while swimming, it's crucial to act quickly and decisively. Here’s what you should do:
Immediate Actions
- Sit your baby upright immediately. This position can help facilitate breathing and prevent further aspiration.
- Monitor their breathing closely. Watch for any changes in their breathing pattern.
- Check for changes in skin colour. A change in colour, particularly to blue (cyanosis), indicates a lack of oxygen.
When to Call for Help
If you observe any of the following, it’s imperative to seek emergency medical attention immediately:
- Your baby is not breathing. This is a critical emergency requiring immediate intervention.
- Your baby's skin colour changes. Especially if they turn blue, this is a sign of oxygen deprivation.
According to the reference provided: If you think your baby may have inhaled water into their lungs, sit them upright. Monitor them for any breathing changes and call an ambulance immediately if they are not breathing and/or their colour changes.
By following these steps, you can ensure your baby receives the necessary care in a potentially dangerous situation.
