Keep Pushing

My wife, Jana, and I, along with our sons, Kody and Tyler, were finally on the way for our family dive trip and vacation. After long delays, we were excited to be in a short line for the gate agent to check us in for our destination. While waiting, we heard a scream for help and an airport employee yelling for a medic.
Kody had recently graduated as an emergency medical technician (EMT), so he and I ran toward the yelling and saw a man on the ground. I did a quick scan to ensure the area was safe and to see if there were other victims or signs of bleeding or other trauma. There was only one victim and no other signs of visible trauma. A man to his right was trying to get a radial pulse, and several bystanders were watching to his left.
I said we were EMTs and asked the bystanders if we could get next to the victim to assess him and try to help. We could hear agonal respirations as I began taking a carotid pulse while checking for responsiveness. Getting no pulse or response, I confirmed with the other man that he had found no radial pulse. I shouted for someone to call 911 for emergency medical services (EMS) and to bring us an automated external defibrillator (AED); I was told that EMS was coming and an airport staff member was getting an AED.
The situation warranted CPR. Even though I had performed CPR before, I was hit with the same reality as always: The outcome is never certain, but we had to try. I took a deep breath to slow my own heart rate and concentrate on the task. The other man helping us obviously had some previous experience based on his composure, initial intervention and willingness to help.
I looked to him and said, “We are going to do CPR.” Without hesitation he nodded and said, “Just tell me what to do.”
As I exposed the victim’s chest, airport staff arrived with an AED. I asked the other man to begin compressions while I set up the AED, reminding him to push hard and fast for 30 compressions. After I made sure his hands were in the correct position above the xiphoid process of the sternum, he began compressions while I worked quickly to turn on the AED and place the pads on the victim. Kody got the pocket mask from the AED kit and was ready to give rescue breaths after opening the victim’s airway with the head-tilt, chin-lift method.
After the man counted to 30 compressions, Kody attempted to give the first rescue breath. I did not feel or see adequate chest rise, so Kody adjusted the victim’s airway to open it more and got a slight rise with the second breath. After I performed the next set of compressions, Kody gave him two more breaths. The victim’s chest rise now signalled an open airway.
As I began the third set of compressions, the AED announced it was analyzing, so
I loudly said, “Clear the patient.” The AED said to deliver a shock. I repeated “clear,” visually confirmed we were clear of the patient, said “delivering shock” and pressed the shock button. Expecting the victim to jolt, we were surprised when nothing happened; the AED said to check the pads. I asked the man to resume compressions while I checked the cables and pads. The plug was inserted securely, the cable appeared intact, but I found one pad not firmly attached to the victim’s upper right chest. Pressing firmly, I stuck it back down.
The terminal was starting to get noisy. We continued with CPR, alternating who delivered compressions every set to keep the quality high and our fatigue low. I asked a staff member and Tyler, who had now arrived, to repeat what the AED said so we didn’t miss any prompts amid the noise. Despite the busy background around us, we were operating as a team with clear communication.
The AED alerted us to shock again, so we got clear and delivered the shock. The victim’s body jolted from the ground as expected this time, but we still had no response from the victim, and the AED advised us to continue CPR.
After we delivered two more sets of compressions and another shock, the victim’s right hand moved. We looked at each other in surprise to confirm what we saw. I immediately checked and found a pulse. The victim reached toward his chest and began groaning but couldn’t respond to our questions. He started to roll, scratching at my arm and trying to bite us. Still not responding to our commands to remain calm or his wife’s voice, he was growing more and more combative.
The EMS unit arrived with the police and began helping us secure him as I gave them a brief summary of events. Paramedics gave the victim a sedative, hooked up their equipment and secured him on a stretcher to whisk him away in the ambulance.
After taking a moment to gather ourselves, our team gave our information to the EMS and police, followed by some high fives and hugs of relief. Our teamwork, communication and training paid off and helped save a life.
BE PREPARED
KEEP YOUR CPR SKILLS CURRENT. Contact DAN® to find a certification or refresher course near you. I teach this class many times throughout the year, and many students aren’t aware how often CPR skills are used, usually on family and friends.
COMMUNICATE. Even though we didn’t know everyone’s skill level while arriving on the scene, we were able to work together to help the victim and each other.
BREATHE AND STAY CALM. During an emergency your composure and ability to stay calm in the moment is key to helping your victim and your team.
SHARE. CPR will not always go perfectly. You may have to adapt and overcome some hurdles, but sharing your experience helps others build their knowledge base and be better prepared for the unexpected.
Kody had recently graduated as an emergency medical technician (EMT), so he and I ran toward the yelling and saw a man on the ground. I did a quick scan to ensure the area was safe and to see if there were other victims or signs of bleeding or other trauma. There was only one victim and no other signs of visible trauma. A man to his right was trying to get a radial pulse, and several bystanders were watching to his left.
I said we were EMTs and asked the bystanders if we could get next to the victim to assess him and try to help. We could hear agonal respirations as I began taking a carotid pulse while checking for responsiveness. Getting no pulse or response, I confirmed with the other man that he had found no radial pulse. I shouted for someone to call 911 for emergency medical services (EMS) and to bring us an automated external defibrillator (AED); I was told that EMS was coming and an airport staff member was getting an AED.
The situation warranted CPR. Even though I had performed CPR before, I was hit with the same reality as always: The outcome is never certain, but we had to try. I took a deep breath to slow my own heart rate and concentrate on the task. The other man helping us obviously had some previous experience based on his composure, initial intervention and willingness to help.
I looked to him and said, “We are going to do CPR.” Without hesitation he nodded and said, “Just tell me what to do.”
As I exposed the victim’s chest, airport staff arrived with an AED. I asked the other man to begin compressions while I set up the AED, reminding him to push hard and fast for 30 compressions. After I made sure his hands were in the correct position above the xiphoid process of the sternum, he began compressions while I worked quickly to turn on the AED and place the pads on the victim. Kody got the pocket mask from the AED kit and was ready to give rescue breaths after opening the victim’s airway with the head-tilt, chin-lift method.
After the man counted to 30 compressions, Kody attempted to give the first rescue breath. I did not feel or see adequate chest rise, so Kody adjusted the victim’s airway to open it more and got a slight rise with the second breath. After I performed the next set of compressions, Kody gave him two more breaths. The victim’s chest rise now signalled an open airway.
As I began the third set of compressions, the AED announced it was analyzing, so
I loudly said, “Clear the patient.” The AED said to deliver a shock. I repeated “clear,” visually confirmed we were clear of the patient, said “delivering shock” and pressed the shock button. Expecting the victim to jolt, we were surprised when nothing happened; the AED said to check the pads. I asked the man to resume compressions while I checked the cables and pads. The plug was inserted securely, the cable appeared intact, but I found one pad not firmly attached to the victim’s upper right chest. Pressing firmly, I stuck it back down.
The terminal was starting to get noisy. We continued with CPR, alternating who delivered compressions every set to keep the quality high and our fatigue low. I asked a staff member and Tyler, who had now arrived, to repeat what the AED said so we didn’t miss any prompts amid the noise. Despite the busy background around us, we were operating as a team with clear communication.
The AED alerted us to shock again, so we got clear and delivered the shock. The victim’s body jolted from the ground as expected this time, but we still had no response from the victim, and the AED advised us to continue CPR.
After we delivered two more sets of compressions and another shock, the victim’s right hand moved. We looked at each other in surprise to confirm what we saw. I immediately checked and found a pulse. The victim reached toward his chest and began groaning but couldn’t respond to our questions. He started to roll, scratching at my arm and trying to bite us. Still not responding to our commands to remain calm or his wife’s voice, he was growing more and more combative.
The EMS unit arrived with the police and began helping us secure him as I gave them a brief summary of events. Paramedics gave the victim a sedative, hooked up their equipment and secured him on a stretcher to whisk him away in the ambulance.
After taking a moment to gather ourselves, our team gave our information to the EMS and police, followed by some high fives and hugs of relief. Our teamwork, communication and training paid off and helped save a life.
BE PREPARED
KEEP YOUR CPR SKILLS CURRENT. Contact DAN® to find a certification or refresher course near you. I teach this class many times throughout the year, and many students aren’t aware how often CPR skills are used, usually on family and friends.
COMMUNICATE. Even though we didn’t know everyone’s skill level while arriving on the scene, we were able to work together to help the victim and each other.
BREATHE AND STAY CALM. During an emergency your composure and ability to stay calm in the moment is key to helping your victim and your team.
SHARE. CPR will not always go perfectly. You may have to adapt and overcome some hurdles, but sharing your experience helps others build their knowledge base and be better prepared for the unexpected.
Posted in Alert Diver Summer Editions
Categories
2020
January
February
Group Fitness at the PoolHow to Rescue a Distressed diver at the SurfaceHow to manage Near-DrowningNo Sit-ups no problem How to manage MalariaHow to manage Oxygen Deficiency (Hypoxia)What to do when confronted by a sharkHow to manage Scombroid PoisoningHow to perform a Deep Diver RescueHow to perform One-rescuer CPRHow to perform a Neurological Assessment
March
DAN’s Quick Guide to Properly Disinfecting Dive GearCOVID-19 : Prevention Recommendations for our Diving CommunityGermophobia? - Just give it a reasonable thoughtScuba Equipment care – Rinsing and cleaning diving equipmentCOVID-19 and DAN MembershipFurther limitations imposed on travels and considerations on diving activitiesDAN Membership COVID-19 FAQsLancet COVID-19 South African Testing SitesCOVID-19 No Panic Help GuideGetting Decompression Sickness while FreedivingDown in the DumpsCardiovascular Disease and DivingDelayed Off-GassingDiving after Dental surgeryDiving with Multiple MedicationsPygmy Seahorses: Life AquaticAfrica DustCOVID-19 Myth BustersScuba Units Are Not Suitable Substitutes for VentilatorsDisinfection of Scuba Equipment and COVID-19Physioball Stability Exercises
April
COVID-19 AdvisoryScuba Equipment Care - Drying & Storing Your GearTransporting Diving Lights & BatteriesHow to Pivot Your Message During a CrisisTourism Relief FundCOVID-19 Business Support ReviewDiving After COVID-19: What We Know TodayEUBS-ECHM Position Statement on Diving ActivitiesPart 2: COVID-19 Business Support ReviewPress Release
May
Diving in the Era of COVID-19Dive Operations and COVID-19: Prepping for ReturnCOVID-19 & Diving Activities: 10 Safety RecommendationsCOVID-19: Surface Survival TimesThe Philippines at its FinestThe Logistics of ExplorationThe Art of the Underwater SelfieShooter: Douglas SeifertFAQs Answered: Disinfecting Scuba EquipmentStock your First-Aid KitResearch and OutreachCovid-19 ResearchOut of the BlueEffects of Aspirin on DivingThe New Pointy end of DivingDiving and Hepatitis CCaissons, Compressed-Air work and Deep TunnellingPreparing to Dive in the New NormalNew Health Declaration Form Sample Addressing C-19 IssuesDiving After COVID 19: What Divers Need to Know
June
Travel Smarter: PRE-TRIP VACCINATIONSAttention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and DivingCOVID-19: Updated First Aid Training Recommendations From DANDiving with a Purpose in National Marine SanctuariesStay Positive Through the PandemicFor the Dive Operator: How to Protect Your Staff & ClientsStudying Deep reefs and Deep diversAsking the Right QuestionsLung squeeze under cold diving conditions
July
Dive DeprivationVolunteer Fish Surveys: Engage DiversDAN Member Profile: Mehgan Heaney-GrierTravel Smarter: Don’t Cancel, Reschedule InsteadDive Boat Fire SafetyRay of HopePartner ExercisesDiving at AltitudeAluminium ExposureHip FracturesAcoustic NeuromaGuidelines for Lifelong Medical Fitness to DiveNew Dive Medical Forms
August
Women in Diving: Lauren Arthur, Conservationist & Natural History Story TellerWomen in Diving: Dr Sara Andreotti White Shark ResearcherTiming ExerciseWomen in Diving: The Salty Wanderer, Charlie WarlandWomen in Diving: Beth Neale, Aqua soul of freedivingWomen in Diving: Diving and spearfishing Diva, Jean HattinghWomen in Diving: Zandile Ndhlovu, The Black Mermaid
September
October
Freediving For ScienceStep Exercises with CardioFluorescence Imaging help Identify Coral BleachingChildren and DivingThe Watchman device and divingScuba Diving and Factor V Leiden gene mutationNitrogen Narcosis at shallow depthsOil and Particulates: Safe levels in Breathing Air at depthDive Principles for Coping with COVID-19The Importance of a Predive Safety CheckTalya Davidoff: the 'Plattelandse Meisie' Freediver
2019
February
April
May
DAN Press ReleaseYour Dive Computer: Tips and tricks - PART 1Your Dive Computer: Tips and tricks - PART 2Aural HygieneDCS AheadHow Divers Can Help with coral conservationRed Tide and shellfish poisoningDiving after Kidney DonationDiving with hypertrophic cardiomyopathyEmergency Underwater Oxygen Recompression
June
July
September
October
November
Exercise drills with DowelsHeart-rate TrainingCultivating ConservationTRavel Smarter : Evaluating an unfamiliar Dive operatorChallenging the Frontiers of Decompression ResearchTravel Smarter: Plan for Medical EmergenciesWhen should I call my Doctor?DAN Student Medical Expense CoverageAdvice, Support and a LifelineWetsuits and heat stressDiving after Chiropractic adjustments
2018
April
Flying after pool diving FAQLung squeeze while freediving FAQDiving after Bariatric surgery FAQMarine injuries FAQVasovagal Syncope unpredictable FAQIncident report procedure FAQDiving after knee surgery FAQDiving when in RemissionDive with orbital Implant FAQInert gas washout FAQOxygen ears FAQPost Decompression sicknessChildren and diving. The real concerns.Diving after SurgeryPhysiology of Decompresssion sickness FAQDiving and regular exerciseGordon Hiles - I am an Underwater Cameraman and Film MakerScuba Air QualityBreath-hold diving. Part 3: The Science Bit!Compensation Legislation and the Recreational DiverCape Town DivingFive pro tips for capturing better images in cold waterThe Boat Left Without You: Now What?
May
When things go wrongEmergency Planning: Why Do We Need It?Breath-hold diving: Running on reserve -Part 5 Learning to RebreatheSweet Dreams: When Can I Resume Diving Post Anaesthesia?Investing in the future of reefsTo lie or not to lie?THE STORY OF A RASH AFTER A DIVEFirst Aid KitsTaravana: Fact or Falacy?
June
Oxygen Unit MaintenanceKnow Your Oxygen-Delivery Masks 1Know Your Oxygen-Delivery Masks 2Emergency Oxygen unitsInjuries due to exposure - HypothermiaInjuries due to exposure - Altitude sicknessInjuries due to Exposure - Dehydration and other concernsHow to plan for your dive tripThe Future of Dive MedicinePlastic is Killing our ocean
September
Return to DivingDiagnoses: Pulmonary blebSide effects of Rectogesic ointmentDiving with ChemotherapyReplacing dive computers and BCDsCustomize Your First-Aid KitPlan for medical emergenciesHow the dive Reflex protects the brain and heartDry suits and skin BendsAltitude sickness and DCSScuba Diving and Life Expectancy
2017
March
April
Incident Insight: TriageA Field Guide to Minor MishapsSnorkels: Pros & ConsTime & RecoveryMedication & Drug UseDiving with CancerNitrox FAQCOPD FAQHyperbaric Chamber FAQJet Lag FAQHydration FAQAnticoagulant Medication FAQFluid in the Ear FAQEye Surgery FAQElderly Divers FAQNitrogen FAQHealth Concerns FAQMotion Sickness FAQMicronuclei FAQ
June
August
2016
February
March
Breath-Hold Diving & ScubaReturn to Diving After DCITiming Exercise & DivingHot Tubs After DivingSubcutaneous EmphysemaIn-Water RecompressionDiving at AltitudeFlying After DivingDiving After FlyingThe Risks of Diabetes & DivingFlu-like Symptoms Following a DiveHand & Foot EdemaFrontal HeadachesBladder DiscomfortLatex AllergiesRemember to BreatheProper Position for Emergency CareAches & PainsCell Phones While DrivingSurfers Ear Ear Ventilation TubesDealing with Ear ProblemsDiving with Existing Ear InjuriesPerforated Ear DrumENT SurgeryUnpluggedCochlear ImplantsPortuguese Man-of-WarJellyfish StingsLionfish, Scorpionfish & Stonefish EnvenomationsStingray Envenomation Coral Cuts, Scrapes and RashesSpeeding & Driving Behaviour
June
Newsflash! Low Pressure Hose DeteriorationItching & rash go away & come back!7 Things we did not know about the oceanMigraine HeadacheAttention Deficit Disorder Cerebral Vascular AccidentEpilepsyCerebral PalsyHistory of SeizuresMultiple Sclerosis Head TraumaBreast Cancer & Fitness to Dive IssuesLocal Allergic ReactionsSea LiceHow ocean pollution affects humans Dive Fatality & Lobster Mini-Season StatisticsPregnancy & DivingReturn to Diving After Giving BirthBreast Implants & DivingMenstruation During Diving ActivitiesOral Birth ControlBreast FeedingPremenstrual SyndromeOsteoporosisThe Aftermath of Diving IncidentsCompensation Legislation & the Recreational DiverNoise-Induced Hearing LossLegal MattersThe Nature of Liability & DivingDAN Legal NetworkWaivers, Children & Solo DivingHealthy, but overweight!Taking Medication while Scuba DivingGetting Fit for the Dive SeasonBone Considerations in Young DiversAsthma and Scuba DivingHepatitisDiving with HyperglycemiaShoulder PainDiving After Spinal Back Surgery
August
Hazard Identification & Risk AssessmentCaring For Your People Caring For Your FacilitiesCaring For Your BusinessScuba Air Quality Part 1Scuba Air Quality Part 2Chamber Maintenance Part 1Chamber Maintenance Part 2The Aging Diver Propeller SafetyRelease The PressureDon't Get LostMore Water, Less Bubbles13 Ways to Run Out of Air & How Not To7 Mistakes Divers Make & How To Avoid ThemSafety Is In The AirHow Good Is Your Emergency Plan
2015
January
March