MGM Healthcare, a multispecialty quaternary care hospital in the heart of Chennai, organized a Basic Life Support (BLS) training session for more than 100 staff members and volunteers at the Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple. This awareness session was conducted by expert doctors from MGM Healthcare to emphasize the importance of Basic Life Support. MGM Healthcare has been taking a proactive approach to public health and safety by conducting these BLS awareness sessions.

Experts from MGM Healthcare’s Emergency Department, led by Dr. U Meenakshisundaram, Director of the Department of Neurology, also a Trustee of Arunachaleswarar Temple, and Dr. Ram Mohan, Head of the Emergency Department, conducted the on-ground BLS training at the temple premises with the help of the temple’s trust board, Mr. Jeevanandam, Chairman and Ms. Jothi, Junior Commissioned Officer of Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleswarar Temple.

Heatwave conditions prevail in most parts of Tamil Nadu, with temperatures ranging between 38 and 42.5 degrees Celsius. With the influx of visitors to temples and other tourist spots during summer vacations, there has been an increase in cases of heat strokes and cardiac arrests.

This initiative aims to equip more people with Basic Life Support skills to handle medical emergencies effectively. Dr. Ram Mohan highlighted various health precautions to be taken when encountering someone in need of medical assistance. He also provided a demonstration of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) using a mannequin during the training session. Every participant practiced CPR on the mannequin. Additionally, the doctors guided the staff on managing the effects of extreme temperatures, crucial during the scorching summer heat.

The awareness sessions included demonstrations and interactive training on key aspects of Basic Life Support, such as:

• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): Participants learned how to perform CPR on adults, children, and infants. The training emphasized the importance of chest compressions and rescue breaths in maintaining circulation and oxygenation until professional medical help arrives.
• Choking Relief: The sessions covered techniques to assist someone who is choking, including the Heimlich maneuver for adults and back blows for infants.
• Emergency Response Protocols: Participants were educated on the steps to take during an emergency, including assessing the situation, calling for help, and providing initial care until emergency responders arrive.

The session provided temple staff with valuable knowledge on handling various health situations. They are now better equipped to recognize cardiac crises and administer CPR after the awareness sessions. The staff and management of Tiruvannamalai Temple thanked the doctors and MGM Healthcare for their sincere efforts during peak temple processions.