This year the bold batches had a mandatory CPR session with hands on experience. The session was conducted by Dr Reshma Akka with the hope of raising awareness about heart attack and cardiac arrests and how we can use CPR to prevent deaths. The aim of the session was to teach students about the dangers of inaction and the importance of fast responses in dire situations.
The session was divided into two sections. The first session we watched a few videos and how to check if a person is having a heart attack or cardiac arrest. What our first response should be like checking the breath, checking the pulse rate etc. then we watched another video on how to perform the CPR. After watching the video we were divided into groups and had to give CPR on dummies.
Kyntang and I volunteered first to demonstrate CPR on dummies. We were taught the proper form and rhythm in which the correct CPR has to be performed. One should know the correct way to give CPR or it may turn dangerous for the patient. We learnt that to perform CPR the base of the palm should be inline with the centre of the chest. Both the palms should be in an interlocking position with one hand in a fist position and the other hand with finger extended. The hand should move in a rhythmic pattern moving at 30 pumps then two breaths into the mouth, repeating the cycle at least 2 to 3 times.
I felt very grateful for this enriching experience. I learnt a lot as I only had surface level understanding and discussion helped me understand and realise the importance of knowing how to save someone’s life. This session raised a lot of awareness among the students and teachers.