These two classes were for active duty members of the U.S. Coast Guard alone. In the past we have opened up our courses to members of the Auxiliary and had a few Auxiliarists attend them. However, the classes were too large this time to invite additional people.
The curriculum follows the American Heart Associations (AHA) guidelines. The course is divided into three parts: watching a video, lecturing, and hands-on practice with manikins, demo Epi pens, splints, etc. We taught adult, child and infant CPR, choking and the use of an AED.
Following the CPR course, we taught basic first aid such as splinting, bleeding control, the application of a tourniquet to oneself and another person, how to use Epi pens in an allergic reaction scenario, and administration of oral glucose in a diabetic emergency. Each participant needs to complete a list of skills and a written multiple choice exam. Those who pass receive a card certifying them with AHA in the use of CPR, AED and First Aid.
The course is given free of charge to the participants. Usually the course can range from $100 to $350 a person depending on the course. Division 11 is currently scheduling a time and location for a similar course for its members.
OVER THE BOW Summer 2016