Workshop Overview
On 17th August 2025, during the Annual Day celebration of Pujya Hiranagar Sindhi Panchayat, Jaripatka, Nagpur, the Indian Society of Anaesthesiologists – Nagpur City Branch (ISA NCB) conducted a large-scale Compression Only Life Support (COLS) training program for the community.
This initiative reflected ISA NCB’s strong commitment to public health awareness and its mission of building a society where every citizen is capable of responding effectively to cardiac emergencies.
The training was attended by panchayat office bearers, members, families, children, and relatives across all age groups—making it a truly inclusive and community-driven educational event.
Understanding the Importance of COLS
What is Compression Only Life Support (COLS)?
Compression Only Life Support (COLS) is a simplified, evidence-based resuscitation technique recommended for bystanders witnessing sudden cardiac arrest. It focuses on:
- Immediate recognition of cardiac arrest
- Prompt activation of emergency services
- Continuous, high-quality chest compressions
Early initiation of chest compressions significantly improves survival outcomes in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. Public training in COLS bridges the critical time gap before professional medical assistance arrives.
Leadership and Expert Guidance
The session was led by Dr. Umesh Ramtani, President of ISA NCB, who delivered an impactful lecture-cum-demonstration.
Dr. Ramtani provided:
- A clear explanation of sudden cardiac arrest
- Practical guidance on identifying unresponsiveness
- Demonstration of correct hand positioning and compression technique
- Emphasis on confidence-building and overcoming hesitation
His interactive approach ensured that participants not only understood the science behind COLS but also gained the courage to act during emergencies.
Hands-On Training in Batches
Practical Skill Development
To ensure effective learning, hands-on practice sessions were conducted on mannequins in structured batches. This allowed participants to:
- Practice correct chest compression depth and rhythm
- Learn proper body posture during CPR
- Receive real-time feedback from instructors
- Clarify doubts through direct interaction
Approximately 400 individuals actively participated in the session. The diverse audience—ranging from children to senior citizens—demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm and engagement.
Participants raised several questions related to:
- Safety concerns
- Legal aspects of helping victims
- Fear of causing harm
- Recognizing true cardiac emergencies
All queries were patiently addressed by Dr. Ramtani, reinforcing clarity and confidence among attendees.
Mission: “Every Citizen A Life Saver”
A central highlight of the event was the strong message delivered under ISA’s mission:
“Every Citizen A Life Saver”
Dr. Ramtani passionately appealed to all attendees to:
- Develop sensitivity toward victims of cardiac arrest
- Overcome fear and social inhibitions
- Act immediately without waiting for others
- Provide urgent chest compressions wherever needed
He emphasized that bystander intervention is often the difference between life and death, and that timely action can save precious lives within the first few minutes of cardiac arrest.
Workshop Highlights
- Organized on 17th August 2025 during Annual Day celebrations
- Conducted at Pujya Hiranagar Sindhi Panchayat, Jaripatka, Nagpur
- Led by Dr. Umesh Ramtani, President, ISA NCB
- Lecture-cum-demonstration format
- Structured hands-on training on mannequins
- Participation of approximately 400 community members
- Inclusive audience across all age groups
- Interactive Q&A session addressing fears and misconceptions
Impact on the Community
This large-scale community training marked a significant step toward strengthening grassroots emergency response preparedness. By equipping citizens with practical skills and empowering them with knowledge, ISA NCB reinforced the importance of public participation in emergency healthcare.
The event demonstrated that life-saving skills are not limited to healthcare professionals. When ordinary citizens are trained and motivated, they become the first line of defense in cardiac emergencies.
Such initiatives also foster:
- Greater public awareness about sudden cardiac arrest
- Increased willingness to help during emergencies
- Improved community resilience
- Stronger collaboration between medical professionals and the public
