Imagine that you are at a barbecue with your family, and laughter is filling the room continue reading. Uncle Joe collapses suddenly, clutching his chest. The panic sets in. What should you do? CPR training is your secret weapon.
Let’s first break down CPR, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. Not rocket science but can make the difference between life or death. It doesn’t require you to be a super hero to do it. Just some basic training is enough.
Imagine yourself in a classroom filled with plastic mannequins. The instructor shows chest compressions by pushing hard and fast against the chest of the mannequin. It’s awkward at first, but you get the hang of it. The Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive” is a great example of rhythm.
When the heart stops, chest compressions are vital to keep blood flowing. Brain cells begin to die within minutes without this blood flow. It’s a scary thought, isn’t it? With each compression you are essentially pumping new life into someone.
Let’s now talk about those dramatic rescue breaths you see in movies. After 30 compressions you should tilt the head back to allow for a better airway. Then, breathe two times into the mouth of your victim. It sounds simple, but it is easy to make a mistake if you are not careful.
AEDs are a relatively new invention. Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are the cool devices that shock your heart to start it up. These devices are popping up everywhere, including airports, shopping malls and gyms. You can gain confidence by knowing how to use them in an emergency.
Fun fact: dogs can also learn CPR! This viral video shows a dog doing chest compressions during a mock exercise. We can join in the fun if our furry companions can!
Remember the time your friend choked after eating a steak? CPR can be used in this situation as well. The Heimlich maneuver (formerly abdominal thrusts) can be used to dislodge any food that is stuck in the throat. This will prevent a person from choking.
Kids as young as 9 or 10 can also learn these techniques! Now, schools include basic CPR and first aid lessons in their curriculum because, hey – why should adults have all the fun!
It’s true that nobody wants to think about the worst-case scenario of choking or cardiac arrest happening around themselves or their loved one, but being prepared already means half the battle is won! You will feel more at ease knowing that you can take action in such a situation, rather than waiting helplessly for paramedics to arrive who may take longer than necessary due to traffic jams or other factors.
Have you ever attended a team-building workshop where everyone gets to do something together? You might be surprised to learn that organizing CPR sessions in groups could have two benefits: a bonding experience and the acquisition of essential knowledge.
You shouldn’t be afraid to sign up for classes because most instructors will make sure that the sessions are not boring lectures full of medical jargon, but instead interactive and fun experiences making learning faster and more enjoyable. Plus who knows? Maybe one day YOU could end up saving someone else’s life due diligence dedication towards mastering this invaluable skill!
Next time you see a community event that offers free/discounted courses, jump at the chance to gain confidence and boost your preparedness levels. After all, it’s better safe than sorry!