Lake Granbury Medical Center and Cook Children's Unite to Combat Pediatric Drowning

4/7/2025

In a commendable initiative, Lake Granbury Medical Center (LGMC) has partnered with Cook Children's to address the critical issue of pediatric drowning. This collaboration recently culminated in a comprehensive training session at LGMC's newly inaugurated freestanding emergency room at Fall Creek. The session equipped over 35 EMS personnel, first responders, registered nurses (RNs), physician assistants (PAs), and other medical professionals with essential skills and knowledge to prevent and respond to pediatric drowning incidents.

Understanding the Urgency

Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death among children, particularly those aged 1 to 4. In Texas, it stands as the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children aged 1 to 14. These alarming statistics underscore the necessity for proactive measures and community education to safeguard our youngest members.

Empowering the Frontline

The recent training session at LGMC's Fall Creek ER aimed to enhance the competencies of frontline medical personnel in preventing and managing pediatric drowning cases. Participants gained insights into effective prevention strategies, swift response techniques, and the latest protocols in pediatric emergency care.

Proactive Measures for Parents and Caregivers

While medical professionals are being equipped to handle drowning incidents, prevention begins at home. Here are some vital steps parents and caregivers can take:

• Vigilant Supervision:
  • Always provide close, constant supervision when children are in or near water.
  • Designate a responsible adult as a "water watcher" whose sole task is to monitor the children without distractions.
  • Swimming Lessons: Enroll children in age-appropriate swimming lessons to enhance their water competency. While lessons don't make children "drown-proof," they significantly reduce the risk.
• Install Barriers: Ensure pools and spas have appropriate fencing with self-closing, self-latching gates to prevent unsupervised access.
• Learn CPR: Parents and caregivers should be trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to respond effectively in emergencies.
• Use Life Jackets: Always have children wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when on boats or near open bodies of water, regardless of their swimming abilities.

Community Commitment

The collaboration between Lake Granbury Medical Center and Cook Children's exemplifies a community's dedication to child safety. By combining resources and expertise, they are not only enhancing emergency response capabilities but also fostering a culture of prevention and awareness.

Looking Ahead

As we approach warmer months, water activities will become more prevalent. It's imperative for communities, medical professionals, and families to remain vigilant and proactive. Through continued education, training, and community engagement, we can work together to reduce the incidence of pediatric drowning and ensure safer environments for our children.

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