What is the definition of drowning?

The definition of drowning is characterized by respiratory impairment resulting from submersion or immersion in liquid. This means that when a person becomes submerged or immersed, their ability to breathe is compromised, leading to potential suffocation. In this context, drowning can occur in various forms, including both fresh and saltwater, and even in small amounts of liquid. It is critical to understand that drowning does not necessarily imply that a person must be completely underwater; even prolonged immersion can lead to serious respiratory issues.

The other options describe related concepts but do not accurately define drowning itself. For instance, loss of consciousness from falling into water can be a result of drowning, but it does not encompass the respiratory impairment that defines the condition. Similarly, inability to float in water could signify a situation leading to drowning but does not address the underlying physiological impairment. Near-suffocation due to water inhalation is a symptom of drowning but does not capture the entirety of the definition, particularly the aspects of submersion or immersion in any liquid, which is central to the concept.