 |
| Lifeguarding Skills (Item 4 on NLS Test Sheet) The following information comes directly from the NLS Standards Manual. |
|
| Demonstrate effective management of a minimum of 2 of the following selected by the examiner: a. distressed non-swimmer b. submerged non-breathing victim c. spinal injury d. missing person e. public relations situation |
| Purpose To effectively employ skills necessary to respond to situations a-e under all circumstances. |
| 4a Management of a Distressed Non-Swimmer � Quick recognition � Support of victim�s head and shoulders above the surface within approximately 15 seconds of recognition (pool) � Approach such that victim is unlikely or unable to grab rescuer � Transportation of victim to shore, pool deck, or other place of safety maintaining shoulders at or above surface � Reassurance, assessment of the victim � Communication with other lifeguards Notes � The skill should be complete with a minimal disruption of other patrons or the guarding routine � Use the situation as an example for completing an accident report and an opportunity to educate the public |
| Notes: - Emphasis in this item is on the candidate's individual skill ability rather than a team response |
| 4b Management of a Submerged Victim � Quick entry and descent � Rapid ascent � Secure hold on victim during ascent � Protection of airway during ascent and thereafter � Quickest route to point where rescue breathing may be effectively initiated and complications dealt with (side of pool, shallow water, rescue craft) � Breathing check (5 seconds) � Attempt to ventilate (2 slow breaths) � Obstruction cleared if necessary � Pulse check (5 � 10 seconds) � Protection of head during removal � Demonstration of ability to deal with complications at any point in performance (vomiting, obstructed airway) � Performance criteria as for Item 2 (Resuscitation Techniques) Notes � Deep water rescue breathing should not be performed unless all complications can be dealt with adequately |
| 4c Management of a Spinal-Injured Victim � Quick, accurate recognition � Rollover performed if necessary � Rollover permitting evaluation of breathing and pulse � Immobilization of the spine during rollover and throughout procedure (to extent possible) � Resuscitation as required using modified jaw thrust � Monitoring of vital signs � Entry into EMS � Stabilization with spine board or other appropriate device � Preparation for transportation and removal � Ability to deal with complications such as vomiting or obstructed airway � Safe removal where possible Notes � Aim for preparation for transportation and removal from pool promptly |
| 4d Management of a Missing Person Situation � Recognition of problem � Immediate implementation of missing person procedures � Description of person and other key information obtained � Thorough search in area where person last seen or area of greatest danger if not seen � Immediate search of water area (if appropriate) � Proper use of necessary equipment � Reassurance, assistance, and/or direction to further authority for person reporting incident Notes � Procedure should cause minimal disruption to facility operation. |
| 4e Management of a Public Relations Situation � Ability to deal positively with public relations situations � Positive solutions or alternatives proposed to various public relations situations � Follow-up reporting Notes � Situations should focus on those normally encountered by lifeguards on a regular basis |