What should a lifeguard do immediately after a rescue?

After a rescue, assessing the victim's condition is crucial for determining the appropriate next steps in providing care. This assessment allows the lifeguard to identify any immediate health threats, such as whether the victim is breathing or conscious, and to ascertain the severity of any injuries they may have sustained. This step ensures that lifesaving measures are prioritized, such as initiating CPR or calling for emergency medical services if necessary.

Moving directly to assess the victim helps in making informed decisions about further actions that need to be taken. For instance, if a lifeguard finds that the victim is unresponsive or not breathing, immediate intervention is required, while a conscious victim may be able to provide information about their condition.

Focusing on assessment first before lifting the victim or calling for backup allows the lifeguard to provide the best possible care in a structured and timely manner, effectively addressing the emergency situation at hand.