Health and Safety Story - Amy Worthington | American Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter

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Red Cross Lifesaving Skills Come Into Play at the Office

“I never thought I’d have to use my new lifesaving skills, but I did,” says Amy Worthington. “And, it happened at work.”

Being ready for an emergency at work, play or home is so important. Leaders at Merry Maids Cleaning Service agree…and that’s why they asked Amy Worthington to be the company’s safety officer.

Amy took a Red Cross CPR and first aid class at the Grand Canyon Chapter. In that class she learned how to identify and treat breathing and cardiac emergencies as well as sudden illnesses.

“I was a little scared about being the company’s point person for emergencies,” admits Amy. “It’s a lot of responsibility.”

That responsibility went into play a few short months after Amy became certified to save a life.

One of her colleagues who had come in from cleaning all day and reported to us she inhaled bleach fumes and felt chest pains.

“She was concerned” says Amy. “That concern turned into panic. She got very pale and began fainting.”

Those around her caught her and put her in a chair. Amy knew she had to act fast so she moved her into a lying position on the floor. She also propped her legs to get blood back into her head. Amy asked the worker questions and responded with the appropriate care.

“While we waited for paramedics, I was trying to keep her calm,” remembers Amy. She also monitored her vital signs.

As soon as the paramedics arrived, Amy told them everything that happened. They say the worker suffered a panic attack.

Amy did everything right. She had the skills and confidence to help her colleague.

“Now that I’ve had to use my training, I see why it’s so important that we’re all able to help,” says Amy. “I recommend everyone get trained because you don’t want to feel helpless when someone you know or love is suffering.”

You can register for a Red Cross CPR and first aid class by visiting http://www.arizonaredcross.org/