Which of the following is a sign that a drowning victim may not be conscious?

The presence of an absent gag reflex is a significant indicator that a drowning victim may not be conscious. The gag reflex is a protective mechanism of the body that usually occurs when something touches the back of the throat. It requires a certain level of consciousness and neurological function to respond to stimuli in this way. If the gag reflex is absent, it typically suggests that the person is unresponsive and may be unconscious, which is a critical condition requiring immediate intervention.

In contrast, struggling in the water, while it can indicate distress, does not automatically mean a person is conscious, as some drowning victims may exhibit involuntary movements. Floating on their back may also not be a reliable indicator of consciousness, as some individuals can end up in that position due to hypoxia or other physical responses even when they are not alert. Breathing normally would indicate that a victim is conscious and functioning, which does not align with the scenario of being unconscious.

The depth of understanding regarding these signs can be vital for a lifeguard or rescuer in assessing the condition and necessary responses for a potential drowning victim.