When available, why is it beneficial to administer emergency oxygen to a person who is unresponsive due to drowning?

Administering emergency oxygen to a person who is unresponsive due to drowning is critical because it significantly increases the amount of oxygen delivered to the person. When someone has experienced drowning, their airway may be compromised, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the body. By providing supplemental oxygen, you can enhance the oxygen saturation in the bloodstream, which is vital for the functioning of vital organs and can help in minimizing brain damage and other complications.

The other options present some misconceptions about the role of emergency oxygen. While oxygen may play a role in cardiovascular health, its primary function here is to increase available oxygen, rather than directly preventing heart damage. Oxygen does not prevent carbon dioxide from entering the bloodstream; rather, it helps to elevate oxygen levels, improving overall gas exchange. Additionally, while oxygen support is crucial, it does not eliminate the necessity of giving rescue breaths, especially if the person is not breathing adequately and requires continuous resuscitation efforts.