The FDA today announced that a number of Automated External Defibrillator models are being recalled due to a possible failure in proper analysis or administration of shock in a cardiac arrest. The models are made by Cardiac Sciences and the full story can be read here. There is no reason to worry about causing harm by using one of the affected AED's, the failures will not cause an extra or unwarranted shock. Thankfully for all of our Canadian Clients, very few of these models are widely used in Canada. It is a good time to remind people to take a close look at the AED at work and if you are in charge of it, ensure that it is periodically inspected (every 3-5 years, or whatever is stated in the owners manual). It is CRITICAL to have any AED serviced at the recommended intervals as the batteries are designed with a specific shelf life and may need to be replaced by a technician. If you have questions about your AED, contact the sales rep or manufacturer for details and refer to the owners manual. If you are unsure of who to call, feel free to contact us and we can also point you in the right direction.
Tach SmartSolutions
FDA Issues AED Recall: Do you have a faulty AED?
Why Good CPR Training is Important
As a member of Emergency Medical Services, I get asked quite a bit about if CPR works and if training is really necessary. The answer to both questions is undoubtedly yes. I recently competed in a CPR Challenge where I had to perform 2 minutes of CPR while a computer recorded my statistics. The computer was looking for perfect rate and depth and scored a percentage of compressions that were in the "Perfect" range. I scored just over 54%. I've been a health care provider for 7 years and have performed CPR quite a few times in the course of my duties. I am also a CPR instructor. I was shocked at how hard it was to be "perfect" throughout the whole challenge. Just because compressions aren't perfect doesn't mean that they are ineffective, any CPR helps, but it made me wonder about what role training and practice play. The most effective CPR was performed (at 74%) by an EMT who was also a CPR Instructor. According to the representative conducting the challenge, scores ranged from 5% to 74%, with most EMS professionals scoring between 30% and 60%. This really highlighted the need for good solid skills-focused training. I know how hard it is to book into a course in Regina (and how much harder it is in the surrounding area) but if I'm only scoring 54%, and I'm confident in my skills and I have regular practice, what about a person who only takes the course once every 3 years, or took it 10 years ago and never went back for a refresher? At Tach, we're trying to make things a bit easier by offering CPR classes on your time and in a place that is convenient for you. All you need to host a class is a TV/Projector and a DVD Player or hookup for a laptop computer. We bring all the materials and expertise and we strive to leave you with as much confidence as possible. Classes don't even cost all that much. Prices vary depending on number of people, but training your whole organization can be a lot more cost effective than you think. Even if you don't want to do a full course, we can offer a non-certificate refresher to help you feel more comfortable with your skills. We can provide CPR masks or even Defibrillators for yourself, your home or workplace. I have a personal interest in seeing people become trained in CPR, whether it is with us or anybody else. My Grandfather died suddenly of a heart attack 12 years ago. CPR wasn't able to save his life, but there are countless others that can be saved. By taking CPR you are investing in a skill that may allow you to give the greatest gift of all, life. So please, if you want to learn, call us, call our competitors, call somebody and take the class and keep it current. Somebody's life may depend on it.
Speaking of saving lives, the recent weather conditions have really highlighted the need for good, solid driver training. We offer the Canada Safety Council's Professional Driver Improvement Course (PDIC). This is a great course for people who are on the road a lot (Truck Drivers, Taxi Drivers, Delivery Drivers and even Commuters) as it teaches the fundamentals of good driving. The skills learned in the class also help improve fuel economy through changes in driver habits and gives greater confidence to those on the road. Highways in Saskatchewan can be dangerous, particularly around Regina, and advanced driver training (like the PDIC) can help arm you with the best tools to keep yourself and those around you safe. We can teach a whole organization, on your time and on your turf to minimize employee downtime and cost. If you are interested in the PDIC contact us for more information on what the course includes and pricing.
Upcoming CPR Courses
February is Heart Month. In honor of heart month we have a couple of specials going on with CPR training. Between now and March 1st, Tach will donate $10 from every class to the Heart and Stroke Foundation to help support further research. We are also waiving "short notice" fees for classes (until March 1st), if you need a class tomorrow and we can provide it, we'll do it at no extra cost. February is a great time to get trained and now you can do it and support a great cause at the same time. Call Brendan at 306.737.0165 for details and to book your course today.
New Website, New Challenges
As you can see, Tach SmartSolutions has launched a new website. Using cutting edge open source technology, we are striving to make this the most useful tool for making the most of your time. Of course, cutting edge technology, advanced programs and complex layouts mean hours upon hours of troubleshooting, bug fixes and a lot of tests and trials. Bear with us as we work to develop a comprehensive solution and by all means, send us your feedback, we'd love to hear it. Brendan (brendan(at)tachss.ca) will handle any inquiries and we appreciate any feedback. Stay tuned for the final, polished project.
Brendan Hood and the staff at Tach SmartSolutions.