DALLAS, June 13, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The American Heart Association has updated its Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition and Stabilization (PEARS®) Course with new science and key changes from its revised 2010 AHA Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care.
This instructor-led, video-based classroom course helps healthcare providers develop the knowledge and skills needed for emergency evaluation and management of seriously ill and injured infants and children. Key topics covered are:
- PEARS Systematic Approach to the seriously ill or injured child
- Primary assessment, identification, and management of respiratory problems
- Primary assessment, identification and management of shock and circulatory emergencies
- Identification and management of cardiac arrest
- Case discussions
- Effective team dynamics
Through unique learning tools, such as video-based simulation, providers can see and hear critically ill children with whom they do not typically come in contact, equipping them to recognize the signs and symptoms of pediatric emergencies, and thus begin stabilization. PEARS® is intended for healthcare providers such as emergency medical technicians (EMTs), medical and surgical nurses, school nurses and any other healthcare provider who infrequently see seriously ill infants and children.
The PEARS® course was designed, because AHA recognized a gap in the number of healthcare providers who see pediatric patients, but do not take PALS because it is too advanced.
The new course can help improve the quality of care provided to seriously ill or injured infants and children, resulting in improved outcomes.
Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition and Stabilization (PEARS®) Course is available through Emergency Cardiovascular Care Distributors or at OnlineAHA.org, beginning June 13.
Course materials include:
90-1061 PEARS Provider Manual
90-1062 PEARS Pocket Reference Card
90-1063 PEARS Instructor Manual
90-1064 PEARS DVD Set
90-1065 PEARS Posters
90-1066 PEARS Instructor Package
90-1819 PEARS Provider Course Completion Card
The updated course is based on revised guidelines published in the Nov. 2, 2010 issue of Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association, which is available at www.americanheart.org.
For more information about Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition and Stabilization (PEARS®) or other ECC training for healthcare providers, go to www.heart.org/healthcaretraining.
The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association receives funding mostly from individuals. Foundations and corporations donate as well, and fund specific programs and events. Strict policies are enforced to prevent these relationships from influencing the association's science content. Financial information for the American Heart Association, including a list of contributions from pharmaceutical companies and device manufacturers, is available at www.heart.org/corporatefunding.
American Heart Association: Founded in 1924, we're the nation's oldest and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to building healthier lives, free of heart disease and stroke. To help prevent, treat and defeat these diseases — America's No. 1 and No. 4 killers — we fund cutting-edge research, conduct lifesaving public and professional educational programs, and advocate to protect public health. To learn more or join us in helping all Americans, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit americanheart.org
MEDIA CONTACT: Kate Lino: (214) 706-1325