234 students trained in first aid, home nursing care

A collaboration between the Public Health Ministry and the St John’s Association saw 234 young persons being trained in the area of first aid-CPR and home nursing care.
The students were all trained within a four-month period. They now have skills which will be used to assist persons through volunteerism.
Speaking at the simple ceremony held for the students, Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence urged them to use the skills acquired to make their facilitators proud.
According to Lawrence, the training provided was crucial since Guyana is in need of such healthcare providers.
“It is refreshing that we can witness an association of such longstanding giving quality service through training without money being the motivational factor and I say bravo to you… This certification will afford you the opportunity to be of service to others which I exhort you to render with dignity and respect….” Lawrence encouraged.
The Minister added that first aid training is oftentimes overlooked but is, however, important to saving lives.
“I will be requesting of them [St John’s Association] to partner with the Ministry of Public Health to have us do television programmes so we can teach our people, nationally, basic CPR.”
The Health Minister also lauded the training provided in the area of home nursing, stressing her particular interest in care for the elderly…I am very committed to the care of our elderly who are our priority so we laud this programme which will provide solid and sustainable outcomes for our senior citizens who deserves our best” she commended.
Recognising that the graduation was only the beginning for the new healthcare providers, Lawrence charged them to think strategically about their futures.
“I wish you to consider your career path and future. This is the first fundamental step of your accomplishment but do not stop here, you have the unique opportunity to craft an excellent career in health so examine your options, select your area of interest and develop your potential in the health sector.”
St John’s Association Guyana is a vibrant, humanitarian, voluntary organisation providing quality first aid training, first aid services and healthcare to communities, seeking at all times to promote health awareness and safety practices.