CPR-mateTM is both a process and a product designed to provide anyone, anywhere with a low-cost opportunity to learn CPR.

CPR-mate comprises:

o   A Compression-only CPR training too

o   Instructional DVD-Videos

o   E-learning content

o   Smartphone apps.

We all generally agree that Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation is an important and lifesaving skill; one that everyone should know. The reality is, not everyone does, nor are they willing to try. There are many factors why; being scared of doing it wrong, not knowing what to do; unwilling to put their mouth over a strangers. The world expert bodies, International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR), American Heart Association (AHA), European Resuscitation Council (ERC) and the Australian Resuscitation (ARC) have participated in research, and reported on advancements in CPR techniques. One of the most interesting is compressions-only, or hands-only-CPR. The world bodies, including the Australian Resuscitation Council, (Guideline 8 Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) recommend 30 chest compressions with 2 rescue breaths in their guidelines for someone requiring resuscitation. The ARC go on to say ‘Rescuers should minimise interruptions of chest compressions and CPR should not be interrupted to check for response or breathing. Interruption of chest compressions is associated with lower survival rates.’ What they also say is if the rescuer is unwilling or unable to do the rescue breaths perform chest compressions only. Research has indicated that compressions-only or hands-only-CPR is an effective method of resuscitation. It requires you to place your hands in the centre of the chest and continue to compress approximately 100 times per minute whether the casualty is a baby, child or adult. By continuing to compress without stopping, blood is continually circulating keeping the casualty’s brain fed with oxygen. CPR training has traditionally been delivered by first aid providers, medical professionals and persons operating and trained under a first aid provider umbrella such as school teachers.The cost of training materials and the secret knowledge held by the educator has kept this all important learning experience within a trainer-student framework.

Hands-only CPR has removed a lot of the confusion and mystery from the delivery of training, and the application of the skill.

Formal, accredited first aid programs are recommended, but what convenient opportunities do you have to refresh and practice life saving skills at home or the office?

Cpr-mate is currently available in Australia only, but will soon be sold internationally.

Do you know CPR mate? As a matter of fact, I do.