During Case Entry Question #3, the caller reports the son is at the bottom of the pool. Which action should the EMD take next?

• A. Provide pre-arrival instructions and end call
• B. Wait for supervisor approval
• C. Dispatch 14-E-2, read PDI A and D, then return to questioning
• D. Call for backup, then assess ABCs

Answer: (C)

In this drowning scenario, the priority is to get help to the scene as quickly as possible while guiding the caller through life-saving steps. The best action is to dispatch the appropriate EMS unit immediately and provide drowning-specific pre-arrival instructions, then return to questioning to gather essential details. Activating responders without delay ensures responders can begin rescue and resuscitation as soon as they arrive, and the caller can perform critical steps such as checking for responsiveness and providing CPR if needed. You keep the caller on the line to obtain information that will help the responders (exact location, access, number of people involved, safety concerns) while guiding them through instructions that can keep the victim alive until help arrives. Delaying dispatch to wait for supervisor, ending the call after giving instructions, or prioritizing an additional backup before addressing life-saving steps would waste precious time and jeopardize the patient’s outcome.