After early recognition, what is the next critical step for an unresponsive drowning person?

The next critical step for an unresponsive drowning person after early recognition is to initiate early rescue breathing. When a person is unresponsive due to drowning, their airway may be obstructed, and they are unable to breathe effectively. Rescue breathing is crucial because it provides oxygen to the lungs and helps to restore circulation to the vital organs, minimizing damage due to hypoxia. This action can be lifesaving and is essential for reestablishing the body’s oxygen supply.

While other steps like defibrillation and extrication are vital in certain contexts, they are secondary to the immediate need for effective ventilation in drowning scenarios. Early defibrillation is important when cardiac arrest is involved, but it is not the first intervention for a drowning victim who is unresponsive and not breathing. Similarly, extrication is necessary but should not occur before ensuring that the victim receives oxygen through rescue breathing, especially if the situation allows for it. Quick clearing of the pool is important for safety but does not directly address the immediate needs of an unresponsive person.

In this context, rescue breathing directly targets the critical issue of airway obstruction and oxygen deprivation following a drowning incident, making it the appropriate next step.