Near Drowning Incident Involving a Four-Year-Old
Earlier today, while I was momentarily distracted by our two-year-old who was upset, my four-year-old leapt into the pool. It didn’t take long for us to realize she was missing. Upon searching, I spotted her floating in the deep end, her eyes above the water. I quickly jumped in and rescued her before the lifeguards had a chance to respond. They assured us that the entire situation unfolded rapidly and that she hadn’t been submerged for long. Although she coughed and cried afterward, she appeared mostly unharmed, albeit frightened. Since it was close to her nap time, I comforted her, changed both her and her sister, and then settled them down in the stroller for a nap. However, I’m noticing that her breathing and chest seem a little unusual to me. I consulted with the lifeguards, and they mentioned there’s likely no reason for concern, suggesting she might have inhaled some water. Still, I can’t help but wonder if a visit to urgent care is necessary.
Answers (1)
7/10/2025, 2:10:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm glad to hear that you were able to rescue your four-year-old quickly. After a near-drowning incident, it's completely understandable to feel anxious, especially given the concerns about her breathing. Here are the main points to consider:
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Monitoring Symptoms: It’s common for children to cough and appear frightened after an incident like this, especially if they've inhaled water. However, it's essential to keep an eye on her breathing and any changes in behavior.
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Signs of Concern: If she exhibits any of the following symptoms, please seek urgent medical attention:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent cough that worsens
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- Unusual lethargy or difficulty staying awake
- Changes in skin color, particularly bluish tints around lips or face
Explanation:
Near-drowning can indeed lead to water inhalation, which may cause coughing or an unusual breathing pattern. It’s crucial to ensure that she isn’t developing any serious complications, such as aspiration pneumonia.
Next Steps:
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Observe Her Symptoms: Watch her breathing closely over the next few hours. Take note of any changes, especially with regards to her comfort and energy levels.
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Keep Her Calm: If she seems frightened or anxious, continue to reassure her in a quiet and comforting environment.
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Hydration: Make sure she stays hydrated. Offer her small sips of water if she's up for it.
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Sleep Schedule: Allow her to nap but keep checking on her. If she seems restless or has difficulty settling down, this might require closer monitoring.
If her symptoms worsen or you feel uneasy, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Your instincts as a parent are invaluable, and it's better to be cautious when it comes to her health and safety.
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