Members of the Duke University men's basketball and football teams recently participated in American Heart Association Hands-Only CPR training, equipping them with the skills to respond effectively in cardiac emergencies. With nearly 90% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests resulting in death due to lack of immediate CPR, this training is a vital step towards increasing survival rates.
Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, emphasized the importance of CPR knowledge in saving lives during critical moments. The initiative, part of the Association's Nation of Lifesavers campaign, aims to make CPR and AED education accessible to all, ensuring more people are prepared to act in emergencies.
The training provided to Duke's student-athletes not only enhances their ability to respond to emergencies but also positions them as advocates for CPR awareness within their communities. Compression-only CPR, or Hands-Only CPR, is a straightforward technique that can be as effective as traditional CPR in the initial minutes of a cardiac emergency, making it a crucial skill for everyone to learn.
Kevin Siesel, head football athletic trainer at Duke University, praised the training for its engaging and empowering approach, highlighting the partnership with the American Heart Association as a commitment to fostering a nation of lifesavers. This initiative underscores the broader importance of CPR education in improving community health outcomes and saving lives.
