Southland College Prep Students Learn to Save Lives With CPR

Nearly 300 students of the Southland College Prep Charter High School, in Richton Park, Ill., received life-saving CPR training on Feb. 24 through a new school partnership with Advocate Trinity Hospital and Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller (6th District).

Seven specially-trained Advocate Trinity Hospital team members conducted an informational session with hands-on lessons in the basics of CPR, using life-sized training mannequins for students enrolled in physical education and dance classes.

“We want these students to know they can potentially save a life with fast action,” said Jacquelyn Whitten, CNO and Vice President, Nursing Services. “When you observe a person with no pulse, begin with a call to 911.This step alone can make the difference in outcomes.”

Following through with chest compressions, opting for an AED [automated external defibrillator] and remaining calm while awaiting the arrival of an EMS team were subsequent steps shared during the training. Students who completed the orientation class were awarded certificates recognizing their participation in the training.

The training – an extension of Advocate Trinity’s Athletes Know CPR Program, initiated by Cardiologist Dr. Marlon Everett and his patient Elston Harris – was sponsored by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.’s Lambda Tau Omega chapter and coordinated by Comm. Miller, who is an AKA member.

“During this year’s American Heart Month, we appreciate the generous collaboration of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s Lamba Tau Omega chapter with Advocate Trinity Hospital, South, in introducing our students to important information about the value of knowing how to properly administer CPR,” said Dr. Blondean Y. Davis, Southland College Prep, CEO.