Des Moines, (January 29, 2020) – The American Heart Association and Mercy College of Health Sciences debuted Iowa’s first hands-only CPR kiosk on January 28, at Jordan Creek Town Center outside Scheels. The kiosk will provide a five-minute training to members of the public.
Every year, more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside the hospital, and more than twenty percent of those incidents occur in public places like airports, casinos, and sporting facilities. Studies show that hands-only CPR is equally as effective as conventional mouth-to-mouth CPR, and people are more likely to feel comfortable performing it.
“We exist to prepare nurses and health professionals so we can improve the health of Des Moines and global populations,”
said Mercy College President.
“We know heart disease affects everybody’s life. Heart health can be greatly improved with CPR knowledge. People used to be afraid of performing CPR because there were so many steps. This kiosk gives everyone the opportunity to learn hands-only CPR quickly. It is the single best thing anyone can learn.”
The kiosk features a touch screen video program with a brief introduction and overview of hands-only CPR, followed by a practice session and 30-second test. In total, the training takes about five minutes to complete. With the help of a practice manikin (a rubber torso), the kiosk gives feedback about the depth and rate of compressions and proper hand placement.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a leading force for a world of longer, healthier lives. With nearly a century of lifesaving work, the Dallas-based association is dedicated to ensuring equitable health for all. We are a trustworthy source empowering people to improve their heart health, brain health and well-being. We collaborate with numerous organizations and millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, advocate for stronger public health policies, and share lifesaving resources and information. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
About Mercy College of Health Sciences
Mercy College of Health Sciences is the only private Catholic college in central Iowa and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Located in downtown Des Moines, Mercy College prepares graduates for service and leadership in the healthcare community with a wide range of bachelor, associate, and certificate programs. Visit www.mchs.edu or call (515) 643-3180 to learn how you can start your Charting Your Course.
