“You Can be a Life Saver: CPR – A Hands-on Training”

The Youth Red Cross Unit of St. Philomena’s College (Autonomous), Mysore organized a CPR Hands-on Training Program titled “You Can be a Life Saver: CPR – A Hands-on Training” on 16 October 2025 at 2:00 pm in the College Auditorium. The Cauvery Heart & Multi-Speciality Hospital, Mysore, and the Indian Society of Anaesthesiologists (ISA), Mysore Chapter collaboratively conducted the program, in association with the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), IQAC, NCC, NSS, Sports Committee, and Rovers & Rangers of the college.

The main objectives of the program were:

To provide hands-on training in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
To create awareness about the importance of early intervention during cardiac emergencies.
To equip Youth Red Cross volunteers with essential life-saving skills.
To enhance the confidence of students in managing real-life emergency situations.

The session was delivered by Dr.Vaidyanathan R. (DA, DNB, FICM, EDIC), Chief Intensivist and Head of the Department of Anaesthesia, Intensive Care & Pain at Cauvery Heart & Multi-Speciality Hospital, Mysore. A skilled medical team consisting of supported him:

Postgraduate Residents:Dr.Karthika, Dr.Sudhanshu, Dr. Ramachandran, and Dr.Namrath
Nurse Care Practitioners: Mr. Ajay and Mr. Madappa
Respiratory Therapists: Mr. Faazil and Miss Aparna

The training session covered the following key areas:

Introduction to CPR and the Chain of Survival.
Identification of cardiac arrest and initial response steps.
Demonstration of chest compressions and rescue breathing.
Correct hand placement, compression depth, and rhythm.
Practical orientation on the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).

Participants were given the opportunity to practice CPR on manikins under the direct supervision of the trainers. This hands-on segment allowed students to correct their techniques, improve coordination, and gain real-time feedback. The Youth Red Cross volunteers participated actively, showing great interest and responsibility throughout the session.

The program outcomes included:

Improved understanding of CPR procedures among volunteers.
Enhanced readiness to respond to emergency situations on campus and in the community.
Increased awareness of the role of youth in promoting health and safety.
Strengthened collaboration between healthcare institutions and the college.

In conclusion, the CPR Hands-on Training Program proved to be highly beneficial and impactful for the Youth Red Cross volunteers. It successfully achieved its goals of imparting essential life-saving skills and promoting emergency preparedness among students. The Youth Red Cross Unit extends sincere gratitude to Cauvery Heart & Multi-Speciality Hospital, ISA Mysore Chapter, and all coordinating committees for their valuable support in conducting this program.