Final answer:
If an unconscious infant or child needs help, the first rescuer should remove them from the water if they are in it and focus on bringing them to stable ground. If the child is choking, specific techniques such as turning the baby upside down or performing the Heimlich maneuver may help dislodge the obstruction. If these steps fail, calling for emergency medical care is crucial.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first rescuer who arrives at the side of an unconscious infant or child should quickly perform the following steps:
- Remove the child from the water, if they are in the water. CPR is ineffective in the water, so bringing the child to stable ground is the first priority.
- If the child is choking, try to dislodge the obstructing object by turning the baby upside down and slapping on the back. For an older child, encourage them to cough forcefully and give a few hardback slaps to help force the lodged object out of the airway.
- If these steps fail, perform the Heimlich maneuver on the child. You can find instructional videos online to learn how to do it. If the Heimlich maneuver also fails, call for emergency medical care immediately.