When it comes to lifeguarding, the role is much more than just monitoring swimmers and ensuring safety. Lifeguards are often the first responders in emergencies, and they need to be prepared for a wide range of situations, from minor injuries to life-threatening events. That’s why CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and first aid techniques are an essential part of lifeguard training. These skills are critical in maintaining the safety of swimmers and saving lives when every second counts.
At American Lifeguard USA, we believe in providing comprehensive training to ensure that lifeguards are equipped with the skills they need to handle various emergency situations confidently and competently. This article will highlight the top CPR and first aid techniques that are taught in lifeguard classes, with a focus on the skills that could make all the difference in an emergency.
1. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): The Foundation of Lifeguard Training
CPR is one of the most crucial skills a lifeguard can learn. This life-saving technique is used when a person’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped, which can occur during drownings, cardiac events, or other medical emergencies. Lifeguards are trained to perform CPR to restore blood flow and oxygen to vital organs until emergency medical help arrives.
At American Lifeguard USA, CPR is a key component of our lifeguard certification courses. We teach both adult and infant/child CPR, as the techniques can vary depending on the age and size of the person involved. Below are the key steps covered in the CPR training:
a) Adult CPR (One-Rescuer)
In the case of an adult who is not breathing and has no pulse, a lifeguard must act quickly:
- Check for responsiveness: Gently tap the person and shout to check if they respond.
- Call for help: Immediately instruct someone to call 911 or emergency services.
- Chest compressions: Place the heel of your hand on the center of the chest and interlock your fingers. Deliver chest compressions by pressing down hard and fast (about 2 inches deep and at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute).
- Rescue breaths: After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths, ensuring the airway is open. Pinch the nose, cover the person’s mouth with yours, and breathe until the chest rises.
- Continue CPR: Repeat the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 rescue breaths until the person starts breathing or emergency medical help arrives.
b) Child CPR
Child CPR is slightly different from adult CPR due to the smaller size of the child. Key differences include:
- Compression depth: For children aged 1-8 years, compress the chest about 1/3 of the depth of the chest (roughly 2 inches).
- Rescue breaths: Use a smaller, gentler breath, and be sure to only cover the child’s mouth with your own.
c) Infant CPR
For infants under 1 year old, CPR techniques change even further. Lifeguard classes, like those at American Lifeguard USA, teach:
- Compression depth: Use 2 fingers to press the chest about 1.5 inches deep.
- Rescue breaths: Give small puffs of air into the infant’s mouth and nose. Each breath should last about 1 second.
Learning CPR allows lifeguards to act fast and effectively in situations like drownings, where a delay in treatment can be fatal.
2. First Aid for Drowning Victims
One of the most common situations lifeguards face is a swimmer in distress, potentially drowning. In addition to CPR, lifeguards must be proficient in first aid techniques that help stabilize victims until medical help arrives.
American Lifeguard USA provides specific training to recognize signs of drowning and take swift action. Here are some first aid techniques typically taught in lifeguard courses:
a) Rescue Breathing for Drowning Victims
In cases where a person has stopped breathing but still has a pulse, lifeguards are trained to perform rescue breathing. This involves providing air directly into the person’s lungs to help restore oxygen levels. It’s essential for lifeguards to maintain a calm demeanor and perform the technique efficiently until the individual begins breathing on their own.
b) Stabilization and Support
After a drowning victim is rescued, it’s important to stabilize them and prevent further injury. Lifeguards are taught how to keep the victim’s head above water, maintain an open airway, and monitor their breathing until emergency personnel arrive. Techniques such as the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver are employed to keep the airway open.
c) Handling Near-Drowning Victims
A near-drowning incident requires special care. Victims who have swallowed large amounts of water or experienced hypoxia (lack of oxygen) may need immediate medical attention. Lifeguards are trained to perform basic first aid, such as assisting with breathing, calming the victim, and checking for other signs of injury like head or spinal trauma.
3. Managing Bleeding and Wounds
In addition to CPR and drowning response, lifeguards also need to know how to handle situations involving cuts, abrasions, or severe bleeding. American Lifeguard USA emphasizes the importance of controlling bleeding quickly, as excessive blood loss can lead to shock or even death if left untreated. The following first aid techniques are essential:
a) Direct Pressure
For most cuts and abrasions, applying direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or bandage can stop the bleeding. Lifeguards are trained to maintain pressure until the bleeding stops, making sure to avoid removing the cloth once in place, as it can disturb the clotting process.
b) Elevating the Wound
If the injury is on a limb, lifeguards may elevate the limb to reduce blood flow to the area and help control the bleeding. This is especially effective for smaller cuts and abrasions that are not life-threatening.
c) Tourniquet Application
For severe bleeding that doesn’t stop with direct pressure, lifeguards are trained to apply a tourniquet. This is a last-resort measure used for life-threatening injuries, such as deep lacerations to limbs. The tourniquet must be applied above the wound to restrict blood flow and reduce bleeding until medical professionals arrive.
4. Dealing with Spinal Injuries
A spinal injury can occur in water when a swimmer dives into shallow water or collides with another swimmer. Lifeguards must be trained to respond quickly and appropriately to avoid further injury.
American Lifeguard USA teaches specific techniques for managing suspected spinal injuries:
a) Spinal Precautions
When a lifeguard suspects a spinal injury, they must maintain the victim’s head, neck, and back in alignment to prevent any further movement. The victim is then carefully supported, and if needed, the lifeguard will call for additional medical help to safely extract the individual from the water.
b) Stabilization Techniques
Lifeguards are trained to use various spinal stabilization methods, such as the log-roll technique, to move victims while minimizing any movement of the spine. They also learn how to use cervical collars or other equipment to further stabilize the victim before emergency responders arrive.
5. Shock Management
Shock can occur as a result of severe injuries, dehydration, or a drowning incident. It’s important for lifeguards to recognize the signs of shock early and take action to stabilize the victim until medical professionals arrive. American Lifeguard USA teaches lifeguards how to:
- Keep the victim warm by covering them with a blanket or towel.
- Elevate the legs (if there is no spinal injury) to improve blood flow to vital organs.
- Monitor breathing and pulse to ensure the victim does not stop breathing or lose consciousness.
Also Read About: Guide to Lifeguard Class in San Luis Obispo County
Conclusion
CPR and first aid techniques are crucial skills for every lifeguard. At American Lifeguard USA, we provide in-depth training that covers a wide range of life-saving procedures. From CPR for adults, children, and infants to specialized first aid for drowning victims, bleeding, and spinal injuries, our lifeguard classes are designed to ensure you are prepared for any emergency situation.
By mastering these essential techniques, lifeguards can save lives, prevent injuries, and contribute to creating a safer environment for swimmers and beachgoers. Lifeguarding isn’t just about swimming; it’s about being ready to act quickly and decisively when every second counts.
