This week, the medical academy has taught the underclassmen how to perform CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation). This is due to the state mandate that Florida had put in place in 2014. This requires students to receive basic CPR and AED (Automated External Defibrillator) training to graduate high school. CPR is an emergency procedure that consists of chest compressions to mimic a heartbeat. Knowing the steps to CPR is helpful in an emergency and can save so many lives.

This CPR presentation works by calling the underclassmen by last name and bringing them to the gym. Then, students in the medical academy who are already CPR certified help guide them. They show them the correct hand placement, the correct depth, the correct way to use the AED, and the rhythm that needs to be followed to provide complete compressions.

Luanne Barbosa, a senior from West Boca, stated, “I found this presentation very helpful. I had no idea how to perform CPR and that it was this easy to perform. I’m happy that our school thought of this great idea.” CPR is a skill that everyone should know. West Boca’s providing this information to all underclassmen is crucial for promoting safety and readiness in emergencies.