Safety, Fire & Survival · Survival — MOB Recovery Risk
When recovering a hypothermic person from the water, why should they be lifted horizontally rather than vertically when possible?
- AIt makes no physiological difference
- BHorizontal recovery is only for comfort
- CVertical lifting damages the lifejacket
- DVertical lifting can cause a fatal drop in blood pressure ('post-rescue collapse'); horizontal recovery reduces this risk✓ Correct
Explanation
After prolonged immersion, hydrostatic squeeze on the body has supported blood pressure; lifting a casualty vertically can cause blood to pool and pressure to collapse (circum-rescue/post-rescue collapse), risking cardiac arrest. Where feasible, recover the casualty in a horizontal attitude.
Authority: Ship Captain's Medical Guide; cold-water rescue guidance
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