Hello if your not one of our  Facebook followers this is a great way for you and your friends to get in on this all that you have to do is like us on Facebook or have one of your friends like CPR Northwest on Facebook from now to December 15  and you will be in the drawing for a $50.00 Macy's gift card. If you have one of your friends like us make sure that they put your name on our wall for your to be in the drawing. And good luck to all of you. (503) 538-2610

The advice to “keep it simple, stupid”—kiss, kiss—seems to apply to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

But with CPR, kiss-kiss means no mouth-to-mouth contact.

A study published in tomorrow’s Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) adds to the evidence that the old way of doing CPR—alternating chest compressions with blows into the mouth—is needlessly complicated in most cases (there are exceptions, which we will get into below).

Instead, this study and others (The New England Journal of Medicine published two CPR studies in July, one conducted in Sweden and the other in the Seattle area) suggest that CPR is just as effective, and maybe more so, when people skip the mouth-to-mouth ventilations and do only the chest compressions.

And the lead story in this month’s Harvard Health Letter is about simplifying CPR.

The trick with “hands-only” CPR, as it is sometimes called, is to push hard and fast (about 100 times a minute)—and not to stop until professional emergency help arrives.

You definitely want that help to arrive as soon as possible, so if you think someone has had a heart attack or that his or her heart has stopped, the very first priority is to call 911. (Cell and smartphones have made that easier than ever to do: no more running around, looking for a pay phone.)

A recap of the JAMA study The data for the JAMA study came from Arizona, and the study was led by Dr. Bentley J. Bobrow, the medical director of the bureau for emergency medical services and trauma systems for the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Dismayed by cardiac arrest survival statistics, health officials in the Grand Canyon State  launched the Save Hearts in Arizona Registry and Education (SHARE) program in 2005. The program used public service announcements, online videos, training programs, and a variety of other means to familiarize Arizona residents with hands-only CPR and encourage them to do it if someone was in need.

The study included 5,272  Arizona adults (people ages 18 and older) who between Jan. 1, 2005, and Dec. 31, 2009 had an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest that presumably was triggered by heart trouble.

After exclusions because of missing information, CPR being administered  by a medical professional, and a variety of other reasons, the number of cases included in the analysis was 4,415.

Here is how the numbers broke down by the type of CPR delivered:

• 65.7% (2,900) received no CPR prior to professional help arriving
• 15.1% (666) received conventional CPR (the chest compressions and the breaths)
• 19.2% (849) received chest compression–only CPR

So “no CPR” was the biggest category, although the percentage of  Arizonans who received “bystander” CPR did increase over the four years included in the study, from 28.2% in 2005 to 39.9% in 2009.

The proportion of people who received chest compression–only CPR also increased. In 2005,  just 33 out of the 596 (5.5%) cases in the study received chest compression–only CPR. By 2009, 306 out of 1,011 (30%) did.

Here is how the survival statistics stacked up (survival in this context means living long enough to be discharged from the hospital):

• No “bystander” CPR: 5.2% (150 out of 2,900)
• Conventional CPR: 7.8% (52 out of 666)
• Chest compression–only CPR: 13.3% (113 out of 849).

And the overall survival rate was 7.1% (315 out of 4,415).

So the conclusion drawn was that chest compressions–only CPR was associated with increased survival compared with conventional CPR and no CPR.

Why chest compression-only CPR may be better In an editorial about the Arizona study, Dr. David C. Cone, an emergency department doctor at Yale (he is not the former major league baseball pitcher, David B. Cone), summed up some of the  arguments  for chest compression-only CPR.

• It’s almost certainly easier to teach and learn than conventional CPR.
• It would probably make many people more willing to attempt CPR.
• And perhaps most importantly, it keeps the blood flowing through the circulation system, which in many cases is probably going to be more important than resupplying the blood with oxygen by blowing into the person’s mouth.

Here is how Dr. Cone put it in his editorial:

Forward flow of blood ceases very soon after chest compressions are halted, and several compressions are needed to reestablish perfusion when compressions are resumed. The “push hard, push fast, don’t stop” mantra of current CPR teaching is designed to reinforce the need for minimal interruptions in chest compressions to maintain some degree of perfusion to the vital organs until more definitive therapy (such as defibrillation) can be delivered.

But it’s complicated Still, there’s some question whether chest compression—only CPR is really better than the old-fashioned CPR we learned through close encounters with Resuscitation Annie.

The studies published in the NEJM suggested equivalence between the two forms of CPR, not superiority for the hands-only approach. But equivalence is often seen as a mark in the plus column for chest compression–only CPR because it’s presumably so much easier to learn and do. And the Arizona experience does suggest that if chest compression—only CPR  became the norm, more people would attempt CPR.

The survival statistics from Arizona are certainly a nod in favor of chest compression–only CPR. But Dr. Cone argues that when neurological outcomes were factored in, it’s closer to being a tie between conventional and chest compression–only CPR.  Neurological outcomes are key because one of the main goals of CPR is to keep the brain supplied with blood. But the authors of the study see the data a little differently. They concluded that the neurological outcomes were better for chest compression–only CPR. So perhaps this particular issue needs to be hashed out.

Now for those exceptions New CPR guidelines from the American Heart Association are due out soon, according to Dr. Cone. We’ll see what the new recommendations have to say (and write another blog post). The long-term trend has been toward simplifying CPR and emphasizing chest compressions.

But as was mentioned at the very beginning of this post, there are cases when conventional CPR with its mouth-to-mouth ventilations is probably going to remain the better approach.

Most cardiac arrests are of cardiac origin, and the Arizona study was limited to those cases. But people do suffer cardiac arrest secondary to other causes, often after they stop breathing. When that happens,  oxygen levels in the blood get very low. Conventional CPR and those breaths into the lungs can bring oxygen levels back up.

When do people stop breathing and then suffer cardiac arrest? When they drown, choke on something, or are strangled by something. A drug overdose can suppress respiration and lead to cardiac arrest. And if a child suffers cardiac arrest, it’s usually preceded by respiratory distress of some kind.
To take a CPR class give us a call at (503)538-2610

When was the last time that you had your business AED check out is it working is the battery operational? Don't let your business be caught with an AED that doesn't work this can lead to big Problems for you and your business with someone suing you. Why not have us come out and check it out for you to make sure that everything is working so that it will never happen to you. We can do this monthly or yearly and show your employee what they should check  every month. So give us a call it could be the best money that you ever spent. Read more on this from our blog. CPR Northwest 503-538-2610

Don't let this happen to your business Have us come out and check your AED for a small fee could save you big in the long run.
Non-Functioning AEDs Can Lead to Big Problems Posted by Rick Schmitt    An ongoing Syracuse, New York court case shows why AED program management is so important for any organization required by law to have automated external defibrillators on their premises.

According to a story posted on the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation website, a suit brought against a Syracuse health club claims that “two non-working AEDs…led to a member’s sudden cardiac death.” One of the devices involved had no battery, the other had a dead battery.

The case cites the fitness club as well as the device manufacturers, and is early in the litigation process. 

The Foundation’s article makes an excellent point about how an AED management program is paramount to helping businesses and organizations avoid these kinds of potential issues:

“There are a variety of reasons why AED programs fail. Equipment maintenance is certainly one of those reasons. This potential point-of-failure is one that can be easily prevented with the right tools and a trusted AED program services partner. A trusted partner can also help reduce risks by ensuring proper AED law compliance.”

Just like other sophisticated pieces of equipment, an AED takes some care and maintenance to ensure proper functionality. An AED program can help keep devices in good working order, with scheduled battery checks and training reminders so that everyone required to have knowledge of its use is ready to respond in an emergency.

If your organization is required to have these easy-to-use lifesaving devices at your facilities, please download our “Five Keys to Long-Term Success for Workplace Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Programs” e-book to learn more about what your AED program should include.  CPR Northwest (503)538-2610

Bloodborne pathogens are infectious microorganisms in human blood that can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Needlesticks and other sharps-related injuries may expose workers to bloodborne pathogens. Individuals in many occupations, including first aid team members, housekeeping personnel in some industries, nurses and other healthcare personnel at facilities may be at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Since it is hard and difficult to determine pathogens in any blood specimen, and that some blood borne diseases are lethal, standard medical practices regarding blood products, procedures regarding blood extraction or any activity related with blood products should be imposed. All should be considered potentially infectious. Blood and Body Fluid precautions are a type of infection practice or technique that aims to minimize this sort of disease transmission.

In order to reduce, minimize or completely eliminate the hazards and dangers of occupational exposure to blood borne pathogens, institutions and workplaces must design, plan and implement an exposure control plan for the worksite or workplaces with complete description of details and flows for employees protective measures. The plan or flow process must have or should describe how the institution will use a combination of engineering and work practice protocols, ensure the use of protective personal clothing and devices and equipment, provide trainings and seminars regarding blood borne pathogens, medical surveillance, Hepatitis B vaccinations, signs, labels and brochures and other provisions.  Engineering controls are the primary means of eliminating or minimizing employee exposure and include the use of safer medical devices, such as needleless devices, shielded needle devices, and plastic capillary tubes.

Needlestick injuries is the most common cause of blood borne infections in a healthcare environment. It is a percutaneous piercing wound typically set by a needle point, but possibly also by other sharp instruments or objects. Commonly encountered by people handling needles in the medical setting, such injuries are an occupational hazard in the medical community. Occupational needlestick injuries are mainly focused on the healthcare environment, but law enforcement is at particularly high risk for incidental needlesticks, though this population is commonly overlooked.

Diseases like HIV and and Hepatitis C can be transferred to each individual, from one another through used hypodermic needles, exposed wounds or blood transfusion. For this reason, Blood borne pathogens certification is required for healthcare professionals, or more precisely for each individual handling blood or blood products, and who are also at risk for needle stick injuries. The test for certification may be taken through the Health Department and is offered online by many centers.

OSHA has developed a webpage to provide workers and employers useful, up-to-date information on bloodborne pathogens. For other valuable worker protection information, such as Workers’ Rights, Employer Responsibilities and other services OSHA offers. Online certification for blood pathogens and online first aid certification are readily available on different websites and may serve as a useful tool for increasing awareness regarding blood borne pathogens, its prevention and how to completely nullify it.

To take a class which should be done ever year give us a call at 503-538-2610 www.cprnorhtwest.com

Well it is summer time and every one will be at the lake  swimming, Sorry to say that some will drown this year in the lake or in the pool.  Don't let this happen on your watch, be prepared, learn first aid /cpr.  You may be able to help save a life!  Yes we can come to the lake an give you and your family a class on First Aid /CPR and AED. Just call (503)538-2610

High blood pressure is a part of life for the majority of those over age 70.  That means blood pressure medication has become a fact of life, too.

Diuretics, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, renin-angiotensin system blockers, and the list goes on.  In a study of a national sample of almost 5000 Medicare beneficiaries with hypertension, more than 85 percent were taking at least one of these classes of blood pressure drugs.  Most took at least two types.

A great vast majority of the elderly have co-morbidities, and are exposed greater risks.  It is worth the time to go over specific risks with your healthcare provider – especially for risk of falls.  Serious fall injuries are as likely to lead to death or have lasting functional disabilities.

Looking at those Medicare beneficiaries on hypertensive meds, researchers found out, that the risk for falls is significantly higher in those taking meds in contrast to those who do not.

Although it is premature to blame anti-hypertensive meds to falls, these types of meds drop blood pressure, and can make patients fatigued, confused and dizzy.

It appears beneficial then, to weigh out the risk and benefits of how aggressive one wants to control blood pressure.  Medical authorities already advise relaxing the goals for lowered blood pressure among older patients, as recent guidelines suggest aiming for 150/90 for patients over age 60 without diabetes or kidney disease.

Speak to your healthcare provider and your family and help create goals and plans tailored to your priorities.
To take a CPR or first aid class give us a call at (503)538-2610

Studies show that women who carry extra fat around their midsection are putting themselves at risk for developing cancer and heart disease more than women with smaller waists. If you have a tendency to deposit fat around your middle, there are a few simple steps you can take so that you are never on the receiving end of someone’s CPR training.

The great thing is that you can change how you look and have fun along the way. These are very basic changes and really easy to incorporate into your day. You will begin to see a difference in a few weeks.

Limit your intake of high calorie fatty foods. Cook with healthy oils in place of butter.

Eat 2 ½ cups of fruits and vegetables each day. These will help to stabilize your blood glucose.

Do at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise each day. This is a great way to burn off excess calories. Meet up with friends and walk instead of going out to lunch.

Work out with weights a couple times per week. This will help to burn calories and reduce fat around the waist.

Drink a cup of green tea each day. The rich antioxidants have been known to help reduce fat cells.

Get plenty of rest. For most of us that is about 7 to 9 hours.

There are ways to help a victim of a heart attack and there are ways to avoid ever becoming a victim. Taking part in your company’s Onsite CPR Training or signing yourself up for an  CPR Northwest BLS Training course are ways in which you will learn the proper techniques for keeping another person alive if they suddenly stop breathing or give us a call 503-538-2610

Good morning,

June 1 through 7 is National CPR and AED Awareness Week and the American Heart Association has recently created additional Hands Only CPR videos.

Hands-Only CPR has just two simple steps: 1) If you see a teen or adult suddenly collapse, call 9-1-1; and 2) Push hard and fast in the center of the chest to the beat of the classic Bee Gees' song "Stayin' Alive."

We've teamed up with a popular DJ, DJ Earworm, to create an uplifting, powerhouse mash-up that is at least 100 beats per minute - the rate you should perform chest compressions during CPR.

We made this Hands-Only CPR Mash-Up Video<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GECRg9257OM&feature=youtu.be> to raise awareness about Hands-Only CPR and encourage people to learn the easy steps on our website at www.heart.org/handsonlycpr<http://www.heart.org/handsonlycpr>.

In addition, the AHA also created a new training demo video<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8iU3Mtblho>.  By taking just 60 seconds to watch this video, someone can learn the easy steps to Hands-Only CPR.

Feel free to share the links above with your students, instructors, etc.

Thank you for all that you do for the American Heart Association.

Best Regards,

Robin
________________
Robin Roberts
Sr. Account Manager
Emergency Cardiovascular Care Programs

American Heart Association
Cell:  304.610.2428
E-mail: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>

Nervous about leaving your little one home unattended for the first time? If you haven’t adequately prepared your babysitter for the task of handling a baby, your nerves are probably warranted. Set your mind at ease by preparing your tot’s babysitter for success with the three tips below:

1. CPR Training: Though you can certainly hope she’ll never have to use it, having CPR training in her back pocket is great way for your babysitter to be prepared in an emergency. Find a local class in your area for Advanced Cardiac Life Support Training and Pediatric Emergency Assessment, and Recognition by visiting www.cprnorthwest.com.

2. Emergency Numbers: Should something go amiss or should she simply have a question, be sure she has a working number for you and your spouse. In addition to giving her your cell, it’s a smart idea to give her contact numbers for wherever you’re going in case cell reception isn’t the best.

3. Experience: Ask your babysitter whether or not she’s ever spent time with an infant before leaving her at home with your own child. If her answer is no, offer to have her act as a mother’s helper for a bit while you’re at home in order to give her experience under your careful supervision.
To take a class give us a call at 503-538-2610