When Seconds Matter

On a spring afternoon in late March Capitol Lakes’ Director of Nursing, Rebecca Durst, yells out “Sarah is not breathing!”  Her team immediately echoes her.  One shouts, “Call 911!” while another responds, “Calling 911”. 

Immediately they all spring to action – performing CPR on a training manikin the Capitol Lakes Foundation was able to purchase for them thanks to your support. 

Capitol Lakes' Director of Nursing, Rebecca Durst, trains her team on CPR techniques

One staff member manipulates an oxygen mask while another performs the chest compressions – a task that takes a surprising amount of strength and endurance.  The lights on the manikin flash red or green to let staff know if they are performing the chest compressions correctly.  Rebecca calmly coaches each student as the group counts together the number of compressions before they switch positions.  Each student cycles through each role a number of times – practicing skills today that could save lives tomorrow.

This kind of coordinated response is exactly what Rebecca envisioned when she wrote her grant request to the Capitol Lakes Foundation for CPR training manikins and associated life-saving equipment.  In her proposal, Rebecca noted that currently CPR certification is often limited to licensed nursing staff, but “emergencies do not wait for a nurse to arrive.  Lives are saved when trained staff are present at the right moment.”

Your generous gifts to the Capitol Lakes Foundation quickly allowed the purchase of the training materials Rebecca requested.  With this equipment, Rebecca and her team can now:

·      Certify and recertify nursing assistants on-site

·      Conduct hands-on, scenario-based training

·      Maintain competency through ongoing practice

·      Ensure immediate, confident response during emergencies

As Rebecca notes:

“Investing in this equipment is an investment in safety, preparedness, and dignity for those we serve.  By equipping our team with the proper tools and training, we reduce response times, empower frontline caregivers, and ultimately save lives.  Thank you for your continued commitment to improving care and safety in our community.”