In a water rescue scenario, under what circumstances is a victim considered to be in recovery?

In a water rescue scenario, a victim is considered to be in recovery when they have been submerged for such an extended period that there is a high likelihood they are deceased. This classification typically indicates that the chances of successful resuscitation are minimal, as the duration of submersion significantly affects the body's oxygen levels and can lead to irreversible brain damage or death.

In emergency response situations, identifying a victim in recovery helps responders prioritize resources and shift focus towards body recovery rather than attempting resuscitation. Time is a crucial factor in these cases; the longer a person is submerged, the lower the likelihood of survival. Thus, "recovery" signifies a transition from a life-saving effort to a more somber task of respectful retrieval.

Other scenarios described—such as a victim who can assist in their rescue, is stranded for a short period, or may suffer from life-threatening injuries—indicate situations where the victim still possesses a chance of survival. Therefore, these instances would prompt continued rescue efforts rather than a shift to recovery.