In the initial near-drowning evaluation, which test is routinely performed?

In the initial near-drowning evaluation, which test is routinely performed?

• A. Brain MRI
• B. Electrocardiogram
• C. Abdominal ultrasound
• D. Serum lipid panel

Answer: (B)

ECG monitoring is routinely performed because hypoxia from submersion can directly affect the heart, provoking arrhythmias or ischemia. An early ECG quickly reveals rhythm disturbances, conduction issues, or electrolyte imbalances that could complicate resuscitation and guide immediate management. The other tests don’t influence the initial acute assessment: brain MRI is not needed unless there are focal neurological deficits, abdominal ultrasound is not routinely indicated without specific signs of intra-abdominal injury, and a lipid panel isn’t useful in the acute emergency evaluation.

ECG monitoring is routinely performed because hypoxia from submersion can directly affect the heart, provoking arrhythmias or ischemia. An early ECG quickly reveals rhythm disturbances, conduction issues, or electrolyte imbalances that could complicate resuscitation and guide immediate management. The other tests don’t influence the initial acute assessment: brain MRI is not needed unless there are focal neurological deficits, abdominal ultrasound is not routinely indicated without specific signs of intra-abdominal injury, and a lipid panel isn’t useful in the acute emergency evaluation.