Assessment and Management of Pediatric Trauma
Module 7: Complications of Pediatric Multi-Organ Trauma and Other Injuries (Drowning, Burns)
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Submersion and Drowning

  • Submersion responsible for 15% of pediatric injury deaths
  • Drowning defined as death within 24 hours of submersion
  • Drowning-related death defined as death beyond 24 hours
  • Dry drowning is caused by hypoxemia from airway obstruction due to prolonged reflex laryngospasm
  • Wet drowning is caused by massive fluid aspiration while submerged
Module 7: Complications of Pediatric Multi-Organ Trauma and Other Injuries (Drowning, Burns)