What is the appropriate response if a lifeguard suspects that a swimmer is experiencing a medical emergency?

When a lifeguard suspects that a swimmer is experiencing a medical emergency, the appropriate response is to provide immediate aid and call for additional help. This response is critical because a swift intervention can significantly impact the outcome for the swimmer in distress.

Immediate aid may involve assessing the swimmer's condition, initiating first aid, or performing CPR if necessary, depending on the situation at hand. By calling for additional help, the lifeguard ensures that more trained personnel or medical assistance can arrive quickly. This collaborative approach not only enhances the safety of the swimmer but also can alleviate the pressure on the lifeguard by bringing in additional resources.

Other options, such as leaving the scenario to others, solely observing, or waiting for the swimmer to alert a lifeguard, are inadequate because they can delay critical aid. In emergencies, time is often of the essence, and proactive action is essential for effective response and management of the situation.