CHF offers training for workplace AED units

(CNS): The non-profit Cayman Heart Fund (CHF) is extending the availability of its training programme to organisations that are part of the project to install Automated External Defibrillator (AED) units in workplaces and public places around the islands. The classes are coordinated by St. Matthew’s University, School of Medicine (SMU).  AED training is offered FREE to all organizations which have purchased or received an AED from the CHF.  When used in the first 3-5 minutes of a person collapsing, AEDs have been shown to dramatically increase the survival rate of a person suffering from sudden cardiac arrest. 

“The AEDs distributed by the CHF are very straightforward and easy to use,” Dr. Sook Yin, Medical Director of the CHF said. They audibly instruct the rescuer about exactly what to do during each step of the process and even will deliver indicated shocks automatically and safely.

A person’s chance of survival drops 10% for every minute that passes between cardiac arrest and getting the heart restarted.  Since time is the most important factor in a cardiac emergency. “We wish for the public to understand and feel confident to call 911 and then grab the closest AED should a person suddenly collapse.  Persons availing of the free short AED training sessions will enhance such confidence and thus the chances of survival,” Dr Yin added.

Basic Life Support (BLS) training is also known as CPR or cardiopulmonary resuscitation. CHF and SMU are offering FREE BLS training session for nannies, teachers and day-care providers to help such caregivers respond more quickly and efficiently in case of an emergency.   In addition to free BLS classes for child caregivers, BLS classes are being offered to employer and community groups at the affordable fee of $60 per person and are available at either the group’s meeting site or at the SMU campus.

Organizations and companies may wish to combine the free AED & low-cost BLS trainings back-to-back.  Since BLS training could save a life almost anywhere, not just at the workplace, it could be the best present you give this holiday season.

CHF anticipates offering Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) instructor training for medical professionals in 2012.  “CHF will continue its annual provider education Cardiac Symposium and is pleased to expand its cardiac education efforts for the country’s professionals,” said Suzy Soto, CHF Chair Emeritus. 

The CHF appeals to businesses, schools, homeowners and public entities to prepare, protect and prevent deaths from cardiovascular disease.  For more information on AED installation, AED, BLS or ACLS instructor training, please contact the CHF at (345) 916-6324 or at caymanheartfund@gmail.com.

Meanwhile, CHF is also selling tickets for next February’s fund raising gala dinner for tickets and more details contact 345-916-6324 or caymanheartfund@gmail.com