CPR training for Dutch Marines at SMMC

CAYHILL — The St. Maarten Medical Center recently provided Basic Life Support training for the Royal Marines from the Netherlands. Nineteen Marines completed a one day course in Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). After the passing of hurricane Irma, the Dutch Marines have been present on the island. A recent group received their CPR training from the SMMC, in addition to further medical training provided by the Marine Combat Life Savers.

The instructor-led CPR course was held at NIPA. The course instructors were Antonio Pantophlet, Education Instructor & Manager of Patient Care, and Corwin James, Assistant Supervisor Intensive Care Unit. They were both assisted by fellow colleagues Frank Bannis, Intensive Care Nurse and Rafael Antoine, Critical Care Nurse.

All instructors are certified trainers by the American Heart Association in CPR and Basic Life Support (BLS). “The trainers were very skilled in CPR and were able to transfer their knowledge quite well, in conjunction with the video modules”, said First Lieutenant Gielings.

CPR training equips the Marines with the skills needed to recognize life-threatening emergencies, give high-quality chest compressions, deliver appropriate ventilations and provide early use of an Automated External Defibrillators (AED). During the eight-hour class, the Marines learned how to conduct adult CPR through simulated clinical scenarios and learning stations. This was done through close work with the instructors to complete BLS skills practice and skills testing.

“As marines we think CPR is very important, both in work and personal time. In work CPR may be necessary after a (combat related) injury. The more marines are able to provide high quality CPR, the better. In personal life, you wouldn’t want to find a family member or a friend in need of CPR while you don’t know what to do. This training can save their life”, said Lieutenant Gielings. The course was a success with all participants passing their final examinations. Their certification is valid for two years.