Marking the occasion of National CPR Day, the Department of Pediatrics at Command Hospital (Eastern Command), in collaboration with the West Bengal Academy of Pediatrics (IAP–ALS BLS Chapter), organised a comprehensive Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) awareness drive aimed at enhancing community preparedness and promoting life-saving emergency response skills.
The initiative witnessed the participation of more than 150 individuals, who received practical training through a series of interactive workshops and hands-on demonstration sessions. The programme focused on equipping participants with the knowledge and confidence required to respond effectively during medical emergencies where immediate intervention can mean the difference between life and death.
The training covered a broad spectrum of Basic Life Support (BLS) techniques, including Adult CPR, Pediatric CPR, Infant Basic Life Support, and Neonatal Resuscitation. Experienced instructors and medical professionals guided participants through internationally accepted resuscitation protocols, ensuring they gained both theoretical understanding and practical proficiency in emergency response procedures.
The workshops emphasised the importance of recognising cardiac arrest and respiratory emergencies at the earliest, initiating timely CPR, maintaining airway management, and delivering effective chest compressions until advanced medical care becomes available. Participants also received hands-on practice using training manikins, enabling them to develop essential skills in a controlled learning environment.
Medical experts highlighted that immediate and correctly administered CPR can significantly improve survival rates in cases of sudden cardiac arrest and other life-threatening emergencies. They stressed that widespread awareness and community participation in CPR training are critical in building a society where bystanders are empowered to act confidently before professional medical assistance arrives.
The collaborative effort between Command Hospital (Eastern Command) and the West Bengal Academy of Pediatrics (IAP–ALS BLS Chapter) reflects a shared commitment to promoting public health education and strengthening emergency medical preparedness. Such initiatives not only enhance individual capabilities but also contribute to creating safer communities capable of responding effectively during critical situations.
The CPR awareness drive concluded with participants expressing appreciation for the practical nature of the programme and the opportunity to acquire life-saving skills that can be applied in real-world emergencies. The event reinforced the significance of timely intervention, continuous public awareness, and community preparedness, aligning with the broader objective of ensuring that more lives can be saved through prompt and effective emergency response.
