Final answer:
The first action a nurse should take for a near-drowning victim is to remove them from the water to a stable ground and then proceed with CPR if necessary. Recognize that drowning victims cannot wave or call for help due to their body's response, and it’s vital to act quickly to assist choking persons.
Step-by-step explanation:
First Action for a Near-Drowning Victim
The nurse's first action to aid a near-drowning victim is to ensure the person is promptly removed from the water. Performing CPR in the water is not effective and could be dangerous, hence the importance of moving the victim to stable ground. Once on dry land, if the person is not breathing or does not have a pulse, CPR should be initiated immediately. It's essential to recognize that a drowning person often cannot shout or wave for help, as the instinctive drowning response limits these abilities. The victim might appear to be calm or engaged in normal activities, with their head low in the water and mouth open, which can be misleading.
In cases where a person is choking, it's crucial to provide assistance promptly. Starting with encouragement to cough, back slaps, and if necessary, performing the Heimlich maneuver. For infants, turning the baby upside down and gently slapping on the back may dislodge the object. Always heed warnings such as 'no diving' signs to prevent accidents that could lead to drowning or other injuries. Remember, bystander intervention is important—the bystander effect can lead to delayed assistance for the victim.