CPR is going high tech. Starting in January 2018, the American Red Cross will incorporate feedback devices with its Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) in an effort to enhance training.
"Use of CPR feedback devices will improve course participants' chest compression rate, the depth of their compressions and their hand position." said Richard N. Bradley, MD, FACEP, member of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council and chair of its Resuscitation Sub-Council.
The American Red Cross and American Heart Association announced changes to guidelines for administering first aid. Among the most noteworthy revisions are new and updated recommendations for the treatment of bleeding; recognition of stroke; recovery position; anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) and treatment of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in diabetics.
Each year, approximately 300,000 people suffer out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrests (SCA) that require revival from an automated external defibrillator (AED). According to the results of a survey commissioned by Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ: CTAS), a leader in first-aid and safety programs, although many workplaces have AEDs on site, it’s likely that a majority of workers would not be prepared to locate and use the units.
The American Red Cross has introduced what it’s calling “the next generation” of first aid and CPR training, with changes designed to save both trainees and instructors time and money.
The two organizations have extended their collaborative relationship, which allows them to share expertise and recruit nurses to fortify relief operations during disasters.
