Confidence in Crisis: The Impact of Hands-Only CPR Training on Community Preparedness
Imagine you're enjoying a peaceful afternoon stroll in your neighborhood when suddenly, you witness someone collapse to the ground. In that split second, every moment matters. Would you know what to do?
This scenario is precisely why events like Hands-Only CPR classes are so vital.
Here is a startling statistic: approximately 70% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in homes, yet only about 46% of people who experience these emergencies receive immediate assistance before professional help arrives.
During a cardiac event, seconds count.
Performance Occupational Health Services (POHS) held a free Hands-Only CPR class for our community in November last year, at the Fort Vancouver Regional Library Three Creeks branch. The turnout was great, with community members from all walks of life eager to learn!
Our goal with this class was to not only equip participants with the knowledge and skills to perform chest compressions but also to instill confidence and readiness to act in emergency situations. We wanted to make CPR approachable and accessible to everyone, regardless of prior experience or medical background.
Before class officially began, we handed out information sheets outlining the steps our instructors would cover during the session.
Leading our Hands-Only CPR class was Michelle, POHS CPR Instructor and Onsite Coordinator, and Angie, POHS CPR Instructor and Director of Operations. They brought a combined knowledge and expertise to share with our class.
Michelle kicked off the class with an engaging presentation, setting the stage for what would be an interactive and hands-on learning experience.
Michelle, CPR Instructor and POHS Onsite Coordinator, leading the class through an informative presentation.
The class transitioned into a practicum, where participants had the opportunity to practice chest compressions on manikins under Michelle and Angie’s expert guidance. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and determination as attendees honed their skills, asked insightful questions, and practiced alongside their peers.
As the session drew to a close, we opened up discussion about real-life scenarios and how to handle specific emergency situations. Our instructors also demonstrated the proper use of trainer AEDs, and gave participants a chance to practice.
The consensus among our community members was unanimous: they left the class feeling empowered and confident in their ability to respond effectively in a moment of crisis.
“I thought it was a well-run, interactive, direct participative class that gave me the confidence I needed to perform CPR if ever needed in my presence.
I thought that you and your POHS team did a great job with the slide/video presentation and then the repetitive hands-on practice with the mannequins.
This refresher class was exactly what I had been looking for as it has been a number of years since I retired and no longer had contact with annual training in these skills.
I thank you and your team for a comprehensive review of the skills and knowledge necessary to feel confident in performing Hands-Only CPR should the need ever arise.
”
If you’re interested in learning more, consider taking a CPR and First Aid class with POHS! We are a training facility via Providence Health Training Center, and all of our courses are taught via the American Heart Association (AHA).
Click here to see our class schedule and register!
We have classes available each month at both of our locations in Vancouver and Longview, Washington.
If you are interested in Spanish CPR classes or onsite classes, please reach out to Michelle, our Onsite Coordinator. To learn more, visit our CPR and First Aid class page.
And if you’d like to sign up for future free Hands-Only CPR classes, keep an eye on our social media channels. You can find links to all our POHS social pages here.
Our Hands-Only CPR training wasn't just about teaching a life-saving technique; it was about encouraging a sense of community and collective responsibility. By coming together to learn and support one another, we've taken a significant step towards building a safer community—one where every member is prepared to act and every heartbeat matters. Whether you're a concerned grandparent, a caring neighbor, or a dedicated community member, your participation can truly make a difference.
