Research at Respond 2015

Respond 2015 took place on Saturday 7th March in Tullamore, Co. Offaly and began in style with a CPR flashmob! The conference built on the success of the inaugural event last year and was attended by over 300 delegates. Keynote speakers included the renowned Prof Douglas Chamberlain, Dr. Mark Wilson speaking about the GoodSAM app and Dr Cathal O’Donnell (Medical Director, National Ambulance Service; NAS) presenting on the One Life Project.

 

A research study also took place at Respond 2015 lead by Eoghan Connolly (Advanced Paramedic, NAS) with co-investigators Brigid Sinnott (Irish Heart Foundation) and Dr Niamh Cummins (Centre for Prehospital Research). The study investigated the quality of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) performed by community groups and other responders. Participants were asked to perform four minutes of CPR in conjunction with using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The CPR was performed on manikins and data was collected using a feedback device which was blinded to the participants. All of the Community First Responders were eager to test their CPR skills and their positivity and enthusiasm was infectious!

Videos from the conference will soon be available on www.phecc.ie and if you would like to find out more about the National Community First Responder network visit www.cfr.ie

Pictured at Respond 2015 are Eoghan, Brigid and Niamh with Seamus Sinnott, the winner of the “Best Quality Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Competition” being presented with his prize of an AED.AC