Any of us could end up in this situation- def. something to think about!
(Especially if traveling with teen / adult family members)
* A NM to NYC flight diverted for a patient under cardiac arrest. It took 40 minutes for the aircraft to divert and land- while a chain of trained scouts took turns executing CPR to keep the guy alive. *
Lesson Learned 1: even if a flight has a doctor onboard, a patient will need multiple CPR-trained helpers, given the time required for an aircraft to land and get to a terminal. Don’t hesitate to take action and ask for additional volunteers, as you never know how long a flight might take.
Lesson Learned 2: Learn CPR! The life you save may be your own! (well, own family at least)
CPR involves using a fair amount of body weight for rapid, sustained chest compressions. The BSA leader mentions in the article that you can only be really effective for up to 3-4 minutes.
EDIT- Lesson Learned 3: Learn how to use an AED, too. It’s easier than CPR. EVERY gym employee should know how to use an AED. Not one single employee of my gym knows how to use their own AED. Worthless.
Bonus: my guess is they were retuning from Philmont Scout Ranch (awesomeness).
EDIT: Great video too. And pics confirming Philmont trip. And I guess flight from DEN.
** Edited by reconhokie at 7/25/2024, 7:11:32 PM
9 Replies
2y
Even full grown and well trained adults will start tiring after about 2 minutes, especially if the patient is a larger person. Ideally it's done in 2 minute cycles, then a quick pause for heart rhythm check and shock if necessary, and a different person takes over compressions after the shock. These were mostly teenagers, so even more impressive. AEDs are really simple and will give verbal instructions once they're on, but still takes some knowledge to set up right. All CPR classes should include practicing with AEDs. Of course when that adrenaline starts rushing it can be hard to think clearly, which is why practice is so important.
(In response to this post by reconhokie)
2y
formal lifeguards here but constant beach patrol with minimal equipment. We hope to provide AEDs in several locations and for police officers.
(In response to this post by reconhokie)
2y
Driving. Wife and kids in the car. Going down the bypass in Christiansburg around 70mph. One second I'm fine mid conversation next, out.
Wife noticed we were drifting out of our lane and looked over to see me slumped over in the seat. She grabbed the wheel and eventually guided us off the road. My foot finally slid off the accelerator and we slowed to a stop as we started going uphill.
The joke about dying in your sleep... Not screaming and crying like the passengers in your car.... It hits me a little different.
(In response to this post by reconhokie)
My 16yo son just got state certified in CPR, AED & Public Safety First Aid
When he graduates from HS he will be a certified EMT.
(In response to this post by reconhokie)
2y
it differs to be honest.
(In response to this post by CrystalCoveHokie)
2y
Class in HS. That’s great.
** Edited by reconhokie at 7/25/2024, 8:09:35 PM
(In response to this post by CrystalCoveHokie)
He’s going into 11th grade now. The class is in 12th grade….
After taking the class and turning 18 he will be qualified to take the CA EMT licensing test. Since he already did 100+ hours of training for his summer job this year, he has a head start. Here is the class description…
(In response to this post by reconhokie)