What is not a stage of the drowning process?

In the context of the drowning process, it is essential to understand the various physiological stages that occur when a person is submerged in water. The stages typically include respiratory arrest, which occurs when the airway is obstructed by water and the individual is unable to breathe; cardiac arrest, which follows if vital organs are not receiving sufficient oxygen; and ultimately, death, which is the final stage if the person does not receive prompt rescue and resuscitation.

Decision-making, however, is not a physiological stage of the drowning process. While decision-making may play a crucial role in preventing drowning incidents, such as recognizing hazardous conditions or choosing to enter the water, it does not represent a physical stage that a victim experiences during drowning. Therefore, it does not belong in the sequence that describes the process of drowning as it relates to the victim's physiological state.

Understanding these stages is vital for lifeguards and rescuers, as it helps to prioritize interventions and recognize the urgency of the situation during a drowning incident.