Mangaluru: What began as a routine Saturday for a group of bikers turned into a life-saving learning experience as 30 riders from the Tulunadu chapter of Riding Brotherhood underwent hands-on training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid at Justice KS Hegde Charitable Hospital, Deralakatte.The one-day programme was organised by the department of public health, Nitte (Deemed to be University), in association with Nitte Medical Simulation Centre (Nu-MEDISiM), KS Hegde Medical Academy, with support from Riding Brotherhood.The training focused on equipping riders with skills to respond to emergencies before professional medical help arrives. Participants learnt and practised adult, child and infant CPR, use of an automated external defibrillator, choking management, safe patient handling, bleeding and wound care, treatment of burns, fracture immobilisation, and responses to shock and fainting.Emergency scenario-based exercises covered road accidents, head injuries, fractures, falls, burns, bleeding and choking. Trainers assessed participants individually, corrected techniques and helped improve confidence in handling emergencies.The programme was inaugurated in the presence of Prof Sripada G Mehendale, coordinator, Nu-MEDISiM; Dr Shruthi KT, assistant coordinator, Nu-MEDISiM; Prof Mackwin D’Mello, coordinator, department of public health and chairperson of the workshop; Jupiter Lobo, assistant professor and organising secretary; and Dr Ashith PC, public health specialist.The initiative was conceived by Lobo, a biker and member of Harley Owners Group, and Nikhil Thingalaya, founder and administrator of Riding Brotherhood. “Accidents can happen to anyone, anytime. In those critical moments, knowing what to do can make a real difference,” Thingalaya said.The training was conducted by Prof Mehendale and Dr Shruthi KT, with support from Sr Judy, Sr Jacintha and Br Santhosh. The programme began with a pre-test and concluded with a post-test. Participants received certificates and specially designed first-aid and CPR badges. A safety helmet light sponsored by Phantom Code was presented to Denin Tom Abraham for securing the highest score.
