Red Cross issues new guidelines for CPR, first aid

Newton - The American Red Cross is implementing new guidelines for the practice of first aid, CPR, use of automated external defibrillators and emergency cardiovascular care. The new guidelines, based on the latest science, will enable responders in Sussex County and across the nation to use vital procedures more quickly during emergencies. “Red Cross health and safety programs have been updated to a new state of the art, and we believe the changes being implemented will save lives in Sussex County and throughout the country as we go forward,” predicted Patricia S. Day, executive director of the Sussex County Red Cross. Generally speaking, said Day, the guidelines simplify the teaching and practice of the life-saving skills involved. “Every five years, international organizations and experts in the field of first aid and emergency care come together to review and evaluate the latest data on injury and care,” she explained. “The American Red Cross advisory council on first aid and safety, an independent panel of nationally recognized health and safety experts, played an integral role in the evaluation and interpretation of these very important scientific findings, which led to the development of the new guidelines.” A result of the program updates is the Red Cross’ innovative new approach to educating students. For the first time in Red Cross training history, students will be able to utilize on-screen skills demonstrations along with hands-on instruction. This “practice-while-you-watch” instructional method is one way the Red Cross is making it easier for everyone to be trained and certified in lifesaving skills. By practicing along with the video, students are more engaged and receive more one-on-one coaching by a Red Cross-trained instructor. According to Day, Sussex County Red Cross will offer flexible training programs for first aid, CPR and AED, which will allow local businesses and institutions to customize programs to fit their specific needs. “Our instructors are available to schedule training with the specific courses your organization needs at a time that is convenient — even nights and weekends,” she said. Major changes mandated by the guidelines include the use of five back blows and five abdominal thrusts when providing care to a conscious choking victim. According to the science, administering back blows, chest thrusts, and abdominal thrusts are equally effective methods to dislodge an object. The science also supports using more than one of these methods. When providing CPR, the new ratio is 30 compressions followed by two breaths for adult, child, and infant CPR. The new ratio is effective and easy to remember. The key is not to delay in providing help. Another significant change involves the chest compression landmarking method when administering CPR. The hand placement for chest compressions has been simplified. Instead of tracing up the rib cage, compress directly on the middle of the chest so you can start compressions earlier. Another key change involves the way in which responders will be trained to control bleeding. For information, or to schedule training for your organization, call 973-579-1600, ext. 25, or send e-mail to rmarin@sussexredcross.org, or info@sussexredcross.org.