During an emergency, what might decision fatigue lead to for a lifeguard?

Decision fatigue refers to the deteriorating quality of decisions made by an individual after a long session of decision-making. For a lifeguard, this can have significant implications during emergencies where every second counts.

When a lifeguard experiences decision fatigue, their ability to evaluate situations, prioritize actions, and respond effectively can become compromised. This may manifest as delays in decision-making, the potential for errors, or an inability to assess the situation clearly, ultimately resulting in a negative impact on their overall response to the emergency.

In the chaotic environment of an emergency, the cognitive overload can hinder a lifeguard's ability to effectively manage rescues or coordinate with other emergency responders, thereby risking the safety of those they are trying to help. Thus, decision fatigue can significantly influence outcomes in high-stress situations, emphasizing the importance of mental stamina and clear decision-making processes in lifeguard training and operations.