Treatment of a case of near-drowning in chlorinated fresh water

Abstract

Summary: This report describes the management of a case of near-drowning in chlorinated fresh water. The patient recovered fully, both physically and mentally. Complications involving the major systems of the body had developed prior to admission to hospital. Treatment included controlled ventilation via a cuffed nasotracheal tube, steroids, antibiotics and digoxin. Intravenous fluids given, and considered beneficial in influencing the prognosis, were plasma, blood, mannitol and sodium bicarbonate. The patient's condition was evaluated by frequent blood-gas analysis and appropriate adjustment of inspired oxygen concentration and ventilator settings made. High pressures were required to ventilate the patient because of the low compliance of his lungs. © 1972 John Sherratt & Son Ltd.