As part of the Selby Aquanauts SAA development 4 volunteers attended the recent 02 administration course. Here is a short report from one of the attendees.

“The day in question saw the rise of four bleary eyed O2 administration candidates. Off we bombed up the A64 to Scarborough University to attend the regional SAA O2 administration course.

After a few much needed coffee’s [McDonalds and campus blend], we launched into the traiing. It promised to be a full on day with a good mix of theory and practical application.

The morning was spent covering, via well presented lectures, the properties of oxygen, ways to safely handle it, avoidance of hydrocarbons etc… Aspects such as burst lung, suspected decompression illness, near drowning, carbon monoxide poisoning, CO2 poisoning, shock and accident management were all discussed in detail. Did I mention this was a full day!

After a short lunch break, we then moved onto the practical section of the course. Split into groups, various scenarios were put to us and we had to deal safely and effectively with the casualty. Safe assembly of the O2 kit was an essential and core subject to the day, and also effective ways of administering it to the ‘would be’ diver casualty. CPR and artificial ventilation techniques were reviewed and put into practise. All good fun, especially when you are being examined under pressure!

After another short break, we separated into groups again and were formally assessed with a written 30 question exam and a practical test on our technique. Two scenarios were put to the candidate, who then had to handle the incident. After such a good review of the techniques and theory in the morning, all of us managed very well and passed. Phew!

All in all, it was an enjoyable day and we all came away qualified, more aware and wiser”.