Oregon Trail Chapter Latest News

PORTLAND, Ore. – May 9, 2006 – The American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter has launched newly revised training programs and materials for all first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillation (AED) and emergency cardiovascular care (ECC) courses. Those looking to be trained will find simplified and flexible courses, with more stimulating teaching techniques.

The revamped courses come after the latest review and evaluation of scientific research on injury and care. Highlights of the changes include instructing CPR students to perform cycles of 30 chest compressions and two breaths; and to utilize a series of five back blows and five abdominal thrusts to aid a conscious choking victim. These are just a few of the changes that have been made in order to streamline the information students learn and to empower them to take action in real-life emergency situations.

“We're excited to offer this new, updated program to the community. We want to train people with the confidence and correct tools to act effectively during a life-threatening emergency,” said Stephanie Morgan, Health and Safety Services Director of the American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter. “The goal of our approach is to make training more engaging and eliminate some of the barriers to getting people trained and certified.”

The new teaching techniques include the “practice-while-you-watch” method of instruction, which helps to make training more engaging. Participants will learn their CPR skills while practicing along with a video. This method not only allows the classroom instructor more time to provide individual feedback, it also provides the participants a more uniform learning experience.

For more information on the new courses offered by the American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter or to enroll in a training class, visit www.redcross-pdx.org or call (503) 280-1440. The Red Cross encourages everyone to be trained and certified in first aid and CPR/AED. Receiving training through a certified instructor helps to ensure that you have the proper knowledge and skills to respond in the event of an emergency.

About American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization, led by volunteers, that provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. Local Red Cross volunteers respond to residential fires and other disasters an average of every 32 hours. All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from Oregonians. Financial gifts help provide shelter, food, clothing counseling and other immediate assistance to those in need. Call (503) 284-1234 or visit www.redcross-pdx.org.

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American Red Cross, Oregon Trail volunteers respond to house fires every 32 hours on average.
To assist the Red Cross in providing disaster relief, please call (503) 528-5634.
To prepare yourself and your family for fire or other disasters, go to www.redcross-pdx.org