SAVING LIVES: 4TH YEAR NURSING STUDENTS GET EQUIPPED WITH BASIC LIFE SUPPORT TRAINING

The fourth year nursing students of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) College of Nursing continued their pursuit for excellence and knowledge as they underwent the Basic Life Support (BLS) Training. Each Related Learning Experience (RLE) group, scheduled on separate dates, underwent a rigorous 3-hour workshop hosted by the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Life Support Training Center. Lectures and demonstrations were utilized by the program facilitators as the main methods of instruction. The training program focused on the fundamentals of BLS and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) for several age groups: from adults, children, and infants.  Here, the participants were oriented on the execution of quality chest compressions, traits of trained personnel on BLS, and utilization of selected respiratory modalities (e.g. pocket and bag masks).  Other topics also discussed in the program included early management for choking emergencies and the operation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). Aside from the technical skills, fourth year nursing students were also taught the importance of proper team dynamics which are crucial when providing care towards such patients. The discussion encompassed the expected behaviors, roles, and responsibilities of each participating member in the emergency management of the patient. Lastly, participants were asked to perform return demonstrations and answer evaluation tests to ensure their retention in both their knowledge and skillset. 

By the end of the training, the fourth year nursing students were given e-certificates and eCards as proof of participation and completion of training requirements. These documents are significant for future use as they certify that the recipients have undergone proper BLS training and are equipped with both the right skills, expertise, and adequate knowledge competencies to improve patient outcomes in health emergencies.