Thanks for this post.
As a person who has administered CPR once, and failed, I can tell you that every little bit of exposure to the proper administration of the technique will help you on the fateful day when it is your turn. In my case, I learned CPR during the health segment of Junior High School gym class. I got my chance less than a month later. Somehow, in the midst of the adrenaline surge, I remembered what I was taught, and was able to do it by myself. Unfortunately, the person was too far gone to save.
Don't imagine that I didn't spend many agonizing hours second guessing myself, and wondering if maybe I could have done a better job... I have taken the training several times since, and I KNOW I did it right.... but that doesn't change the feelings.
The second time the need arose, I was coaching soccer. One of my players turned blue and collapsed. A parent in the medical profession took to the field and performed CPR. Again it was a failure. The child suffered a congenital heart failure that was beyond CPR... beyond anything but maybe instant surgical intervention... He was 11 years old.
CPR is the most difficult, and scary thing most people will ever be called upon to do... and it is essential that you put that all aside and get to work. Although it isn't a sure thing, it saves lives.
The one thing to remember is that if it could happen twice to me. It can happen to you. Be prepared.
-Chuck
