Which technique is used to remove water from the lungs of a drowning victim?

The technique utilized to remove water from the lungs of a drowning victim is achieved through a combination of back blows and chest thrusts. This method helps to dislodge any water or other obstructions from the airway, promoting the return of normal breathing. The back blows involve delivering firm blows between the shoulder blades while the individual is positioned appropriately, which can help to create enough force to expel water from the lungs.

Combining back blows with chest thrusts can further increase the effectiveness of this technique, as chest thrusts can create positive pressure in the chest cavity, thereby assisting in expelling water and aiding in the clearing of the airway. This approach aligns with standard first aid protocols for drowning victims, ensuring the airway is as clear as possible for effective rescue breathing.

Other methods, such as cardiac compressions, abdominal thrusts, or the head-tilt maneuver, are not suitable for this specific situation. Cardiac compressions are aimed at restoring circulation rather than clearing fluids from the lungs. Abdominal thrusts are primarily used to relieve choking and could potentially cause more harm if water is already present in the lungs, while the head-tilt maneuver is intended to open the airway rather than clear it of fluid.