Be prepared by learning to give CPR

PARENTS, grandparents and caregivers are invited to a free basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) workshop in Port Elizabeth next week so that they are prepared in the event of an emergency.

Accidents happen suddenly and unexpectedly and can sometimes result in the need for resuscitation, which means everyone needs to learn basic (CPR). And, with summer, swimming and the holidays just around the corner, Life St George's Hospital will host a free basic CPR workshop on Friday November 7 at 11am and November 8 at 9am, in support of National CPR Week.

According to the American Heart Association, new research shows that most (80%) of cardiac arrests happen at home, so this workshop is aimed at parents, grandparents and caregivers (baby nannies) to equip them to deal with the unthinkable event of their infant or toddler requiring CPR.

Cardiac arrest in infants and children has many causes, such as strangulation, drowning or trauma. It can also be a complication of various medical conditions.

CPR is a combination of chest compressions and rescue breathing (mouth-to-mouth resuscitation) and assists with blood circulation or adequate breathing to restore circulation of oxygen-rich blood to the brain. Without oxygen, permanent brain damage or death can occur in less than eight minutes.

"We know how easily accidents can happen and how important and effective CPR can be in an emergency," says Life St George's Hospital manager Andre Bothma.

"This workshop is our way of equipping members of our community with the tools to help in an emergency situation until the patient is reached by a paramedic or is able to present at our trauma unit."

ýBooking is essential as space is limited. For bookings and further information contact Natalie Henman or Yolandi Shaw on (041)501-1834/5 between 7am and 4pm before November 5.