Springfield College began its multi-phase educational program on Monday morning at Central High School to improve student awareness and familiarity with healthcare professions.
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Springfield College began its multi-phase educational program on Monday morning at Central High School to improve student awareness and familiarity with healthcare professions.
With a half-million cardiac arrests each year, CPR increases the likelihood of surviving cardiac arrest or other emergency situations. Central students were able to learn how to perform life-saving care themselves.
On Monday morning, gym class looked a little different. The hardwood floors were lined with over 150 CPR mannequins, as 200 students learned how to perform hands-on CPR.
“It was pretty cool. It was actually fun to like put your hands on with like different equipment. We don’t really have that here so it was just it was nice to see,” said Nalia, a Junior student at Central.
Students were learning how to perform 100-120 chest compressions correctly.
“Hands-on experience is so critical in the health care field and starting with simulators like these ones today just helps to feel more comfortable when there’s a real-life person in front of them,” said Nikki Levine, Executive Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Springfield College.
This partnership between Springfield College and Central meant to encourage students
to not only learn this life-saving skill but to possibly spark interest in pursuing a career in the health care industry.
“There’s always demand in the health care industry,” continued Levine. “If students can take something away today and you know really connect with what they’re learning it opens so many doors for them for employment, opportunities, and careers and in college.”
The next phase of this program will take place at the Robotti Simulation Center at Springfield College. Students will receive hands-on training on some basic skills like evaluating pulse, and blood pressure and using a variety of medical devices.
The program will continue into the Spring semester and students will be able to receive their certifications after completing their training.
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