BLS & ACLS COURSE INAUGURAL PROGRAM REPORT - department of Anaesthesiology, K S Hegde Medical Academy

Cardiac arrest is the most emergent situation, where timely intervention in appropriate manner technically known as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, would save many lives world over. In our country, where access to emergency medical services are not well evolved, availability of an expert in managing such situation can make a difference of life and death to the victim. Resuscitation Training Cell, Nitte University and department of Anaesthesiology, K S Hegde Medical Academy has taken an yeomen step in this direction by organizing a training course in CPR, for 180 doctors over a period of 8 days starting from 7th to 14th July 2014. The courses on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation called Basic Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (BLS & ACLS) are certified by the American Heart Association. The programme was inaugurated by Prof Dr M Shantharam Shetty, Pro-Chancellor, Nitte University. He stressed on the importance of knowing the skills of managing patient in emergency, especially outside the hospital. He also stated the need for training the public, particularly professionals like ambulance drivers and public transport personnel who are available in immediate vicinity. Prof Dr B Satheesh Kumar Bhandary, Dean, KSHEMA, explained the initiative taken by KSHEMA in teaching and training emergency management to doctors, paramedics and general public. Dr Anand Bangera, Professor & HOD of Anaesthesiology, KSHEMA along with the Vice-Dean, Dr Amrit M Mirajkar, KSHEMA were present on this occasion. Dr Sripada G Mehandale, Co-ordinator, Resuscitation Training Cell, Nitte University welcomed the gathering. Dr Gayathri Bhat, Lead Instructor and Professor of Anaesthesiology proposed vote of thanks. Dr Krishna Prasad, Associate Professor of Anaesthesiology, KSHEMA, AHA Instructor along with instructors for Indian Institute of Emergency Medical Services, IIEMS, Kottayam were resource persons.