A swimmer had a close brush with death this Sunday at La Herradura Beach in Jesús Menéndez, Las Tunas. Despite initial reports from the news portal La Tijera claiming the individual had died, numerous comments, including one from the doctor who attended to him, confirmed that he is indeed alive and in stable condition. He was rescued, stabilized, and taken to a hospital where he is receiving medical care with normal vital signs.
Swift Rescue and On-the-Spot Medical Aid
According to consistent accounts from various witnesses, the incident happened around 2:00 p.m. when the man began showing signs of drowning while in the water. Fellow beachgoers quickly pulled him from the sea and performed CPR on the shore. Shortly after, medical personnel from the beach's health post provided direct intervention.
One of the most reliable accounts came from Dr. Amaury Rondón, who stated he led the medical response and patient transfer. "Contrary to reports, there was indeed medical staff present. Six of us from the medical team managed to intubate, stabilize, and transport him. The patient arrived at the hospital alive and in stable condition," he explained.
Gisela Velázquez, another healthcare worker, corroborated that the man received treatment at the beach clinic, was put on mechanical ventilation, and then transferred to Guillermo Domínguez Hospital in Puerto Padre. From there, Dr. José Carlos Almaguer Zayas, the on-duty physician at Chaparra Hospital, provided an update on the patient's status. "The man was received intubated, with hydration and tubes. He was out of danger with normal vital signs. He was admitted to intensive care as a precaution, but he is stable," he reported.
Unraveling the Cause of the Incident
While the identity of the swimmer remains undisclosed, some comments gave partial information. Yadira Nalda, who accompanied him to the hospital, mentioned he is a neighbor from Velasco, about 50 years old. "He is conscious, improving, and still under medical care at Chaparra Hospital," she noted.
The exact cause of the incident is still uncertain. Some witnesses suggest alcohol consumption, while others mention a sudden current as possible factors. Regardless, thanks to the swift actions of the beachgoers, the active presence of medical staff at the resort, and the timely hospital transfer, the man survived.
Understanding Drowning Incidents and Rescue Efforts
How did bystanders at the beach contribute to the man's survival?
Bystanders quickly pulled the man from the water and performed CPR on the shore, significantly contributing to his survival until medical personnel arrived.
What role did the medical team at the beach play in the rescue?
The medical team at the beach promptly intervened, intubating and stabilizing the patient before transferring him to the hospital, ensuring he arrived in stable condition.
What remains unclear about the incident?
The exact cause of the near-drowning incident is still uncertain, with witnesses suggesting either alcohol consumption or an unexpected current as potential factors.