IAP Basic and Advanced Life Support Pediatric Workshop Held at Sassoon General Hospital, Pune
Pune, 29 November 2024: The Department of Pediatrics, B.J. Government Medical College, and Sassoon General Hospital successfully conducted the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) Pediatric Workshop on November 29 and 30. This workshop was organized in collaboration with the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), Pune, and witnessed participation from 40 healthcare providers across Maharashtra.
The workshop was inaugurated by Dean Dr. Eknath Pawar, Medical Superintendent Dr. Yallappa Jadhav, and Deputy Medical Superintendent Dr. Khedkar. Speaking at the event, Dr. Pawar emphasized the critical importance of Basic Life Support training, stating, “BLS is an essential skill not just for healthcare providers but also for common people, as it can save lives in emergencies such as cardiac arrest.”
The workshop provided hands-on training in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and other life-saving techniques. Participants were trained to handle emergencies effectively, with a focus on equipping both healthcare professionals and the general public with life-saving skills.
Nationally Recognized Training Center
The Department of Pediatrics at Sassoon General Hospital is a nationally recognized IAP-accredited center for Basic and Advanced Life Support. It is the only government hospital in Maharashtra accredited by IAP as an ALS training center, making it a critical hub for life-saving training in the region.
Since 2017, the department has been actively training healthcare providers from Maharashtra and across India. So far, it has trained 160 participants in Advanced Life Support and 350 in Basic Life Support. In addition to healthcare professionals, the center has also conducted mass awareness programs for approximately 400 individuals, including security guards, drivers, orphanage staff, and school teachers.
Leadership and Expertise
The center operates under the leadership of Dr. Aarti Kinikar, Head of the Department of Pediatrics and Vice Dean of B.J. Government Medical College. Dr. Kinikar is also a national trainer for Basic Life Support.
Dr. Uday Rajput, Associate Professor, serves as the Center Director and National Trainer for both BLS and ALS programs. The team includes other national trainers such as Dr. Rahul Daware and Dr. Naresh, who are integral to the center’s success.
Future Training Opportunities
The department remains committed to providing life support training for healthcare workers and raising public awareness about emergency preparedness. For more information about training programs or to schedule a mass awareness workshop, interested individuals can contact Dr. Uday Rajput, Center Director, at 9970419247.
The workshop concluded with positive feedback from participants, who appreciated the hands-on approach and the valuable life-saving skills imparted. Such initiatives highlight the department’s dedication to enhancing emergency care capabilities and fostering a safer community.
