Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation

Comment

Comment by Jodi DellaValle on March 31, 2010 at 5:38am

I think one of the easiest ways to really get CPR awareness is starting in our educational systems. I am amazed that CPR/First Aid is not part of a national curriculum in our educational system.

The other options would be:

1. Requiring businesses to have there employees CPR/AED certified.
a. Corporate Business
b. Educational institutions
c. Public Transportation employees
*these are just a few examples.
2. Requiring people to be CPR/AED certified to get there driver license.
3. Requiring High School Seniors to be Certified prior to Graduation.
4. Require state employees to be CPR/AED Certified.
5. Develop a more detailed program in the Girl and Boy Scouts.


Knowing CPR is one thing but doing it correctly is another. I work at a Level One Trauma Center and due CPR a little more than I would like. It is a skill that you have to practice on. It is one thing to do it on the manikins in your CPR class it is another when it is a real human being. They come in all shapes and sizes and until you do it on a real person you do not realize the force you truly have to use.

There are new devices now that help the students see how well they are doing compressions. These devices require the students to due compression in a more realistic manner than just going through the motions.

We also need to have mandated continue education within the public service fields, including but not limited to EMS, Fire, and Police. These fields are expected to perform CPR correctly and efficiently, but many are seen doing CPR incorrectly. Mandating continued CPR Competency testing throughout the year. Right now in the State of California In Ventura County The EMS System has established a requirement that all EMT certification applicants be objectively tested to demonstrate their CPR skills before being issued a certification. The Same system also requires the EMTs and Paramedics who are part of the organized EMS system, including the Fire departments, ambulance Companies and rescue helicopters, must be trained and objectively tested in CPR skills. The Ventura County EMS is evaluating the effect of CPR training as part of a comprehensive initiative to improve outcomes.
This information comes from the Ambu company who’s product the “Smartman” is being used on the skills training.

Comment by Jeremy Whitehead on August 5, 2009 at 1:52pm

What are you all planning for SCA Awareness Month in October?

Comment by Terry Suarez on August 3, 2009 at 2:38pm

Wow! Now we have a group support to discuss how to over come some barriers we are facing in making things happen for sudden cardiac arrest awareness. Wanted to share how Orlando Regional Medical Center in Orlando Florida did CPR Friends & Family training at the mall in June with preparness for hurricane season. They trained over 150 people on a sunny Florida day in June.