By Ms Namrata Goddeti for BIS Mumbai

On October 26, 2026, Don Bosco School and Junior College, Nashik, organised a CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) training session for its staff members. The programme was conducted on the initiative of the Principal, Fr Rixson Nigrel, with the objective of equipping teachers and staff with essential life-saving skills and preparing them to respond effectively during medical emergencies.

A team of experts from Ashoka Medicover Hospital served as the resource persons for the session. Through informative presentations, practical demonstrations, case studies and real-life scenarios, the experts provided valuable insights into recognising medical emergencies and taking appropriate action. The training covered important topics such as heart attacks, cardiac arrest, choking and fainting among students, highlighting the differences between these conditions and the immediate steps required to manage them.

The resource persons explained how to identify the warning signs of a heart attack and distinguish it from cardiac arrest, which requires an immediate emergency response. They emphasised the importance of calling for medical assistance and initiating CPR promptly when necessary. The session also addressed choking incidents, explaining how to recognise airway obstruction and respond appropriately. Additionally, the experts discussed fainting among students and guided the staff on providing immediate assistance while ensuring the child’s safety.

A key highlight of the programme was the practical demonstration of CPR techniques and emergency response procedures. The experts demonstrated the essential steps involved in responding to a cardiac emergency, including assessing responsiveness, calling for emergency medical assistance and performing chest compressions when indicated. These demonstrations helped the staff understand how to respond calmly and effectively in real-life situations.

The resource persons also highlighted the role of a healthy lifestyle and discussed the importance of balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, stress management, maintaining overall well-being and reducing the risk of lifestyle-related health problems.

The use of case studies made the session informative, interactive and engaging. By discussing different emergency situations, the experts helped participants understand the importance of quick decision-making, remaining calm and following appropriate first-aid procedures. Practical explanations enabled the staff to appreciate how timely intervention can prevent complications and improve outcomes during critical situations.

By facilitating this valuable programme, the school demonstrated that education extends beyond academics and includes developing practical skills that protect lives. It served as a reminder that knowledge, preparedness and timely intervention can make a crucial difference when every second counts.