Swiss medical weekly
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From 1971 to 1977 a total of 32 nearly-drowned children were admitted to the University Pediatric Hospital, Berne, and the Children's Hospital, Lucerne. 5 died within 15 h to 10 days. Neurological damage was seen in 5 cases. 20 children were under 5 years of age and only 8 over 7 years. ⋯ The pathophysiology of fresh water drowning and current treatment are summarized. Situations leading to near drowning are specified and some aspects of prognosis discussed.