In a near-drowning scenario, which potential complication should the nurse monitor for?

In a near-drowning scenario, pulmonary edema is a significant complication that can arise due to the inhalation of water, particularly if the water is fresh or contains contaminants. When a person near-drowns, water in the lungs interferes with the normal exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, leading to impaired gas exchange. Furthermore, the presence of water in the alveoli can cause inflammation and increased permeability of the lung tissue, resulting in accumulation of fluid in the lungs, known as pulmonary edema. This condition can manifest quickly after the incident, leading to respiratory distress, hypoxemia, and potentially respiratory failure if not promptly recognized and treated.

Monitoring for pulmonary edema is critical because it can develop even after the person appears stable initially, and timely intervention, such as oxygen supplementation and fluid management, can greatly influence outcomes. Understanding the pathophysiology behind near-drowning helps nurses prioritize assessments and interventions, making awareness of pulmonary edema essential in this context.