In preparation for clinicals, nursing assistant students are taking the time to undergo CPR training. Instead of instructors coming in and teaching the course, Nursing teacher Mrs. Sara Hartwich decided to train the class herself.

“I think it’s very beneficial to do the CPR training now because we’re currently learning about the heart,” Hartwich said. “During clinical rotations, any of our patients could experience having no pulse and I want my students to be prepared on what to do.”

Although Hartwich has been CPR certified for years, she had to undergo an instructor’s course in order to be able to teach her classes. During the first day of training, an instructor from the American Heart Association was present to ensure that the class was being taught correctly.

“It’s a better environment when Mrs. Hartwich teaches us rather than someone we don’t know,” senior Jennifer Corona said. “You’re already nervous enough so by having her there it’s reassuring to know that if we do something incorrectly she’s there to help.”

During the course, videos and hands on work is being done on mannequins. Besides learning how to do proper compressions, students are also learning how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED.)

“A good benefit of learning CPR now is that we’re well equipped with skills that we may need in the future if we’re going into the medical field,” senior Javen Miguel said.

The CPR certification is valid for two years and is beneficial to have for students who are pursing a medical career after high school.

“My favorite part about learning CPR is learning how to help people in need,” senior Setra Yonis said. “Whenever there’s a case of a patient having cardiac arrest I am now equipped with the skills to help them.”