Final answer:
It is false that you cannot resuscitate someone who has drowned. Removing a person from water and starting CPR quickly enhances survival, especially if drowning occurred in very cold water where there can be an extended window for survival due to a protective laryngeal spasm.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "It is impossible to resuscitate somebody who has drowned" is false. Individuals who have drowned, especially if they are rescued quickly and their airway is protected by a muscular spasm that prevents water from entering their lungs, can often be resuscitated. Commencing CPR within minutes significantly improves the chances of recovery.
It is critical to remove the person from the water before starting CPR as it's ineffective in the water. Although brain death is likely after about six minutes without oxygen, there are exceptional circumstances, such as drowning in very cold water, where the survival window may be extended, particularly in young people. Understanding the reality of drowning, including the fact that drowning people cannot typically shout or wave for help, is essential in increasing the chances of successful resuscitation and debunking common myths about drowning.