Background
Cardiac arrest and choking are time-sensitive emergencies where immediate recognition and prompt intervention can significantly improve survival. To strengthen emergency preparedness among healthcare professionals and school teachers, the Department of Pediatrics, JIPMER Karaikal launched the CARES (Cardiac Arrest Response and Emergency Support Awareness) Initiative. The programme focused on Basic Life Support (BLS), Automated External Defibrillator (AED) awareness, and choking management through interactive demonstrations and hands-on training.
Objectives
- To improve awareness regarding cardiac arrest and choking emergencies.
- To train healthcare professionals and teachers in Basic Life Support.
- To develop confidence in responding to emergencies before advanced medical assistance arrives.
- To strengthen community-based emergency preparedness.
Summary of Activities
| Date | Venue | Participants | Key Topics Covered | Faculty |
| 25 May 2026 (FN) | Government General Hospital, Karaikal | Interns of JIPMER Karaikal, Postgraduates of VMMC,
Pediatricians of GGH karaikal (12 participants) |
Recognition of cardiac arrest, CPR, AED use, choking management | Dr. Dinesh Kumar N, Dr. Jeyaraj M, Dr. Nithya R |
| 25 May 2026 (AN) | MTPG&RIHS, Karaikal | Nursing Students
(2 batch of 20 students in each batch) |
BLS principles,
airway management, chest compressions, choking management |
Dr. Dinesh Kumar N, Dr. Jeyaraj M |
| 26 May 2026
(FN) |
Kovilpathu PHC, Karaikal | Medical Officers, Staff Nurses, Health Inspectors,
ASHA workers (25 participants) |
Cardiac arrest recognition,
BLS, Choking management |
Dr. Dinesh Kumar N, Dr. Jeyaraj M,
Dr. Nithya R, Dr. Vetrivelan H |
| 02 June 2026
(FN) |
Good Shepherd English School, Karaikal | School Teachers
(30 participants) |
Recognising cardiac arrest,
Basic Life Support, AED use and choking management in school children |
Dr. Dinesh Kumar N, Dr. Jeyaraj M,
Dr. Vanshi Pahuja |
Teaching–Learning Methods:
The programme utilised demonstrations, simulation-based training, role play, hands-on skill stations, and scenario-based discussions to enhance participants’ knowledge, practical skills, and confidence in managing cardiac arrest and choking emergencies.
Key Achievements
- Conducted four awareness and skill-building programmes across healthcare and educational institutions.
- Trained a diverse group comprising interns, postgraduate trainees, nursing students, healthcare workers, and school teachers.
- Provided hands-on practice in CPR, AED use, and choking management.
- Strengthened emergency preparedness in both healthcare and school environments.
Impact
The CARES initiative enhanced participants’ knowledge, confidence, and practical skills in responding to life-threatening emergencies. By empowering frontline responders with lifesaving competencies, the programme has contributed to improved readiness for cardiac arrest and choking emergencies in hospitals, primary healthcare settings, and schools.
Acknowledgement
The Department of Pediatrics, JIPMER Karaikal expresses sincere gratitude to
Dr. Sunil K. Narayan, Dean, JIPMER Karaikal, for his guidance and support. Appreciation is also extended to the administrations and participants of Government General Hospital, Karaikal, MTPG&RIHS, Kovilpathu PHC, and Good Shepherd English School for their enthusiastic cooperation and participation.
Future Directions
- Expansion of CARES training to additional schools and healthcare facilities.
- Creation of a network of trained first responders within the Karaikal region.
- Incorporation of emergency preparedness awareness into community outreach programmes.
Conclusion
The CARES Initiative successfully promoted lifesaving knowledge and skills among healthcare professionals and school teachers. Through structured awareness programmes and practical training, the initiative has strengthened emergency preparedness and contributed towards building a safer and more resilient community.
Enclosed: Snapshots from the CARES Training Sessions
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