10 Benefits Of CPR Training For High School Students

Even mundane locations, including shopping centers, have an increased prevalence of SCA occurrence among this age group. Of course, knowing how to perform CPR is applicable for adults of any size and age. Shopping malls have the third-highest rate of cardiac arrest in the U.S., reports My.AmericanHeart.Org. Therefore, the life a student saves may not be a classmate; it could be a total stranger or a family member of a friend.

This information may be useful in reducing participation in risky behaviors among adolescents and college students. Due to the prevalence of such activities among today’s youth, instructors may touch on this risk and encourage high school students to avoid risky behavior. Depending on the institution and program, a review of the signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning may be included, as well as information about the importance of obtaining professional medical help when such symptoms arise, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

5. Skills Carry Forward Into College Settings, Including Programs of Study

Skills gained in completing a life-saving course in high school carry forward into college settings too. Although the risk of SCA resulting from congenital disabilities decreases as students near college graduation, the risk of coronary artery disease begins to climb. Unfortunately, the added stress that accompanies college coursework may lead to poor lifestyle choices, including unhealthy diets, lack of exercise, and extreme stress on the body. Such factors contribute to an increased risk of cardiac arrest, and since time lost, when arrest strikes, is the equivalent to decreased survival, those with the skills and training to respond can effectively increase the survival chances of those in need.

6. It Builds Awareness for Cardiac Illness Screenings

The prevalence of congenital heart problems is a key reason for the higher risk of SCA among today’s youth. In high school populations, more than 85 percent of deaths among those under age 25 are attributable to congenital cardiac pathology, says ACC.Org. It is important to note the risk of mortality from SCA increases as individuals age past 25. This is believed to be the result of acquired coronary artery disease. However, risk factors for this disease increase among those with a predisposition to cardiac health problems. Thus, screenings for congenital disabilities build awareness for future risk of coronary artery disease and catch cases where SCA may occur among high school and college students.

However, the renewed interest in the debate over vaccines in public health schools will likely translate into an infusion of CPR topics. As a result, more states are likely to mandate CPR training for high school students as a basic graduation requirement.

For example, students may learn how to administer CPR, use an AED, protect themselves against blood-borne pathogens, perform First Aid, and more. The opportunities are endless.

9. Students Completing a CPR Course Begin to Think About Ways to Prepare for Real-World Disasters

Those that complete a CPR class have an advantage in responding to emergencies and preparing for the threat of natural disasters. Over recent years, the prevalence of natural disasters has increased dramatically. Today’s disasters are not just occurring more often; they are occurring with increased severity.

Take the example of Hurricane Harvey. The storm did produce severe damage when it made landfall, but much of the damage resulted from the continuing rain that stalled across much of the Texas coast. Numerous people needed high-water rescues, and many lost their lives. The immediate response when someone is suspected of for the translation in the water is to assess the state of consciousness and basic vital signs, including respiration and checking for a pulse. When someone is neither breathing nor exhibits a pulse, the best course of action is to begin CPR. Of course, preparing for natural disasters through life-saving skills training is not limited to severe weather.

The skills gained from getting a CPR Certification can help students prepare for the threat of natural disasters or emergencies. An emergency can arise out of any situation. Car accidents may occur. A wildfire could lead to respiratory distress, and the risk of another terror attack will always exist. Taking steps to know how to save lives is the cornerstone of effective disaster preparedness. Knowing how to evacuate, creating a First Aid kit, and developing a plan form integral parts of disaster preparedness, knowing what to do to save someone’s life when their heart stops beating or breathing ceases is essential to survival. Therefore, other courses are useful in disaster preparedness, and since the prevalence of natural disasters appears to be increasing, completing a course could mean the difference between overcoming such disasters or lives cut too short.

Obtaining the skills necessary to respond when that person suffers from cardiac arrest or respiratory distress could save a life. However, saving the life of a total stranger is one of the greatest feelings on earth. It is a sense of accomplishment, a show of compassion, a willingness to stand up for others, and commitment to always to remember that person. High school students could be the people that save the life of a choking victim in a fast-food restaurant, or they could simply be in the right place at the right time. This is the greatest benefit of completing a CPR class while in high school. It builds leadership qualities in people. It connects high school students with the rest of humanity.

Has your school implemented a free or mandated CPR course? Share your thoughts and this article on social media now to help build awareness for SCA in high school and college students. Anyone can become a life-saver, including those that are still in high school or simply spending time with their friends.