CPR Rescue

Submitted by:  Jillian Valle

On Wednesday, January 18^th 2017, Nannies As Needed sitter, Jillian Valle performed CPR on an unconscious person during a sporting event. “I did not know if he had a specific condition or any of his medical history. I just saw him go down in slow motion and I simply reacted to help assist his fall. I eased him into a flat position on the floor and proceeded to check his vitals. The man’s pulse was very difficult to find. I found myself immediately reacting. I began to administer CPR at the same time calling out for someone to reach 911.”

Once beginning CPR, it is important to continue chest compressions until paramedics can take over unless the subject has begun breathing on their own. "It was a terrifying and humbling experience. I don't think I really started to appreciate virtually every breath I take until after this event. I didn't know if I was hurting him or if I would damage his sternum, I just used what I was taught. I am so thankful I was able to help. I only hope that in sharing this experience, I can motivate at least one person to get their CPR certification."

Once the paramedics arrived, they gratefully thanked Jillian for her composure and quick reaction.  Valle reflects that while it is instinctive to go into a state of panic, there are critical steps that you have to take if you notice an emergency such as this unfolding. Contacting medical professionals such as 911 immediately is vitally important, regardless of the level of medical training that you may have. Basic CPR training is an incredible tool to have in your tool box especially when working with children!

Jillian acknowledges that “There is no way I would have been able to help this man had I not had basic CPR and First Aid training through The American Red Cross Association.” Valle hopes to encourage fellow sitters and parents to become CPR and First Aid Certified because like her, you just don’t know when you may be the only one there who can save that life. She concludes "Walking into the sports center that day, I never imagined I would ever need to use the skills I was taught in my CPR training class, but I now that I have, I feel more confident and prepared than ever in the face of an emergency".