Saving Lives Through Hands-On Practice

Basic Life Support (BLS), including Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), is a set of life-saving skills used in emergencies when someone's breathing or heart has stopped. Learning BLS can empower you to act quickly and potentially save a life. While online resources and videos can provide valuable information, hands-on practice is essential for mastering these techniques.

Why Hands-on Practice Matters

1. Muscle Memory: CPR involves specific hand placements, compression depths, and timing. Hands-on practice helps develop muscle memory, making these actions instinctive in a real-life emergency.

2. Confidence: Practising on a manikin allows you to experience the physical demands of CPR and build confidence in your ability to perform it correctly. This confidence can be crucial in a stressful situation.

3.  Feedback: During a hands-on course, certified instructors provide real-time feedback on your technique, ensuring you perform CPR effectively. This personalised guidance is invaluable

4.  Scenario-based Training: Many courses include realistic scenarios that simulate real-life emergencies. This type of training helps you apply your skills in a controlled environment and prepares you for the emotional challenges of a real event.

5.  Retention: Research shows that hands-on training leads to better retention of CPR skills compared to passive learning methods. Regular refresher courses with hands-on practice are recommended to maintain proficiency.

What to Expect in a BLS/CPR Course

A typical BLS/CPR course will cover the following topics:

• Recognising a cardiac arrest
• Calling for emergency medical services
• Performing chest compressions
• Providing rescue breaths (if trained)
• Using an automated external defibrillator (AED)
• Choking management

Finding a BLS/CPR Course

Numerous organisations offer BLS/CPR courses/training, including:

• Resuscitation Council UK
• British Heart Foundation
• Local hospitals and community centres
• Training providers

Conclusion

Learning BLS/CPR is a valuable investment in yourself and your community. While online resources can be a starting point, hands-on practice is crucial for developing the skills, confidence, and muscle memory needed to respond effectively in a real-life emergency. By taking a BLS/CPR course and regularly refreshing your skills, you can become a potential lifesaver.

Products for successful BLS / CPR Training 

Brayden CPR OBI Adult Manikin	Brayden CPR Adult Manikin  (without Lights)	Brayden CPR Adult Manikin (Red Lights)
Powerheart G5 AED Trainer with ICPR	iPAD SP1 Defibrillator Training Unit with Remote	Zoll AED 3 Trainer
Rescuer  Manual Vacuum Pump	TVAC Manual Easy  Suction Device	Suctionlite  Manual Suction