CPR and first aid have the potential to save lives

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

Shajaira Fiesta, Reporter

Human bodies are susceptible to injuries, illnesses and trauma. Having basic knowledge to take care of critical situations can save lives.

Knowledge of first aid to help victims in the event of accidents is encouraged for all. Being trained in first aid promotes a sense of safety and alertness. If a person is trained to give first aid or CPR, action can be taken if an accident occurs.

Sophomore Jaimee Manupuna said, “I think all students should know CPR and first aid. In any case, it would prevent the situation from becoming worse and keep the condition of the victim from deteriorating until medical help arrives.”

Some injuries require a simple solution like applying ice. Therefore, a ride to the emergency room may not be necessary, at least not immediately.

Knowing that one can save a life, perhaps one’s own, gives one confidence and helps one feel more secure. It reassures others around the trained person as well.

English teacher, Rosalynn Cambe, said, “It is important to know CPR and first aid because we never know when we can save a life.”

All faculty, staff and coaches of the Academy go through an initial training session and then are required to attend a workshop every two years to keep up certification.  

Dean of Students, Cyril Pires, said, “In my experience, I have performed CPR on a teacher and things were going well until medical help arrived. Sadly, he did not make it. People are afraid to just do it and help because of the idea of touching another person’s body, especially when a life is at risk. We need to realize that it won’t hurt them. Like the Nike slogan, we need to ‘just do it.’”

Knowledge of first aid and CPR promotes a healthy, secure and a safer environment and instills confidence among people trained and those around them. Basic first aid knowledge and CPR is helpful in dealing with trauma situations.