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People aren't born heroes they're trained.

CONGRATULATIONS
TO MR. LUIS MEDINA
UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Mr. Medina, a respiratory therapist for University Hospital had just completed his CPR renewal with his manager Brian Weaver when he was called upon to perform a skill that was part of his training.

Recently, while at a family function he noticed that someone had difficulty in breathing and displayed the universal sign of choking. He ran over to the victim, made an assessment, informed someone to activate the EMS chain of survival and proceeded to perform the Heimlich Manuever with the help of another guest. The victim showed signs of unresponsiveness and was assisted to the floor by Luis where he performed compressions on the victim until he was able to extricate the foreign body from their airway. The victim was given several breaths, became responsive and was able to breathe on their own. When EMS arrived the patient was able to talk.

Luis is shown here with the person whoes life he saved, he is to be commended for his speedy action and experience with a life saving technique learned by taking an American Heart Association course with qualified AHA instructors at the UMDNJ/UH/CTC.

TIPS FOR ANYONE WITH OBSTRUCTED AIRWAY

If a victim is coughing strongly or able to talk, let the person try to expel the foreign body using his or her own efforts. If the choking victim displays a weak or ineffective cough, this indicates that air exchange is minimal and that you should start the Heimlich maneuver.

• Teach your family the universal choking sign--clutching the throat.
• Encourage everyone you know to become familiar with this sign and use it when choking.
• To avoid breaking bones, never place your hands on the victim's breastbone or lower rib cage when performing the Heimlich maneuver.
• If choking persists, call 911 immediately.

This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

“LEARN CPR FOR SOMONE YOU LOVE” CALL THE UMDNJ/UH/CTC @ 973-972-4373 Email us at: www.theuniversityhospital.com/ctc

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