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Defenders perform lifesaving training

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Christopher Maldonado
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
U.S. Airmen assigned to the 20th Security Forces Squadron performed CPR and self-aid buddy care training Feb. 27.

The training served as a skill refresher and provided the Airmen with a means to remain proficient in the skills needed to save lives locally and downrange.

“This training enables wounded or injured victims to survive until additional medical care is provided,” said Raymond Owens, 20th SFS training coordinator. “It may prevent unnecessary deaths and crippling injuries from occurring in a combat situation or during an emergency at the home unit.”

Owens went on to say the hands-on training, which is accomplished prior to deploying, will reinforce the lifesaving techniques needed to go downrange.

Throughout the trainings, Airmen performed basic CPR techniques, applied tourniquets and bandages as well as other life-saving procedures. Airmen also practiced the skills needed to save adults, children and infants using an automated external defibrillator.

The overall training focused on assisting choking adults, children and infants while keeping airways open, controlling bleeding, aiding eye injuries and transporting injured individuals.

According to a www.cpr.heart.org statistic, nearly 45 percent of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims survived when bystander CPR was administered.

By remaining proficient in these skills, defenders can continue to provide care for their wingmen in a moment’s notice.