The introduction of CPR training in schools has been advocated by the World Health Organization and benefits of cardiopulmonary resuscitation training for school children are well known. This is a very important issue since out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is a major public health concern. Many studies indicated that there was significant progress in schoolchildren’s knowledge after training. Majority of the studies indicated that adolescents from 12 years onward can participate in training program. The training may raise awareness and responsibility to help others and increase self-confidence amongst the adolescents. Rural Development Institute, Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust has initiated CPR training program under the First Responders Program for school adolescents and community members.

The Comprehensive Program includes: 20-minute presentation, 10-minute video and 90-minute live training practice sessions by the participants. The training basically emphasizes on peer learning technique for scaling the program. During the 6-month program, 12,000 students will be trained in Tehri, Dehradun and Pauri districts. The adolescents also get oriented about the current development in the CPR guideline on basic life support sequence of steps from “A-B-C” (Airway, Breathing, Chest compressions) to “C-A-B” (Chest compressions, Airway, Breathing) for adults. Also, “Hands-Only (compression only) CPR” is emphasized for the untrained lay rescuer. The school authorities as well as the children are appreciating the program and requesting to continue such programs in future also.

In the first quarter, 2,500 adolescents have been trained which included 1,000 boys and 1,500 girls. Estimated 60% adolescents participated from Haridwar and 20% each from Tehri and Pauri districts.

Other Highlights

  • 836 patients were provided health services through telemedicine centres at Toli and Naghtat
  • 30 outreach health camps were organized benefitting more than 800 people
  • 223 women were provided antenatal and postnatal care
    4th batch of ASHA certificate course commenced at Skill Centre and Tehri District Hospital with 31 students.
  • 9 batches of training for 363 participants from Implementing Support Agencies (ISAs) under Jal Jeevan Mission completed
    Summer workshop was organized for RDI scholars
  • More than 100 people with disabilities were benefitted through learning disability clinics, disability certificates, screening and counselling.