Community Education
Advanced Cardiac Life Support
St. Joseph's Hospital offers Advanced Cardiac Life Support classes for healthcare professionals. The course focuses on the emergency management of acute cardiac conditions. Information is presented and participants practice their skills at various stations. Written and hands-on testing completes each session. Pre-course review classes are also offered.
For more information or a schedule of classes, contact 618.526-5621 or e-mail the Education Adviser.
Babysitting
St. Joseph 's in Breese offers “For Babysitters Only” in the spring and fall, generally on school holidays. The class is for girls and boys who are beginning or experienced babysitters and looking to review their skills and learn new information. Topics include medical emergencies, first aid and infant and child care including diapering and feeding, fire procedures, safety, age-appropriate games, toys and entertainment. The class is taught by hospital staff and representatives from area fire departments and the Clinton County Sheriff's Department.
Cost is $15 and the class is limited to 30 participants. For more information, contact the Women and Infants Center at 526-5485 or Deb Wuebbels; to register, contact 618.526-5353 or e-mail the Education Adviser.
Blood Pressure Screening
Blood pressure screenings are offered from 8 to 9 a.m. the second Tuesday of each month. The screening is free; there are no dietary restrictions.
The American Heart Association warns that the higher the blood pressure the greater the chance of heart attack, heart failure, stroke and kidney disease. Early identification can prompt lifestyle changes and focused treatment options.
Traditionally, a reading under 140/90 was acceptable. Now, anyone with a reading of 120-139 over 80-89 is considered pre-hypertensive, at higher risk and much more likely to move into the range where medication is required.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
CPR classes are available for those needing certification to fulfill job requirements or for personal interest. Those successfully completing the course receive an American Heart Association certification card.
The four-hour class teaches how to recognize and provide immediate assistance for life-threatening emergencies including cardiac arrest and choking for adults and children. Students learn to recognize the warning signs of heart attack, stroke and breathing difficulties in adults, children and infants.
CPR classes are generally at 6 p.m. the third Monday of each month but as this date does change, please call to confirm. Class size is limited and those registering may be referred to a later session.
For details or to register, contact 618.526-5353 or e-mail the Education Adviser.
First Aid & Safety Class
St. Joseph's in Breese offers American Red Cross First Aid and Safety Classes. Those attending learn how to prevent injury or illness, recognize an emergency, follow three emergency action steps and provide basic care for injury or sudden illness until the victim can receive emergency medical help. The class is appropriate for those needing first aid and safety certification for job requirements or personal interest.
Those completing the class will receive a three-year certification in first aid and safety from the American Red Cross. Cost is $30 and participants have the option of purchasing the First Aid and Safety textbook.
For more information or to register (required), call the American Red Cross at 594-8261
Look Good – Feel Better
Women undergoing cancer treatments are invited to “Look Good…Feel Better” sponsored by St. Joseph's in Breese, the American Cancer Society, the Cosmetology and the Cosmetic/Toiletry/Fragrance Associations. The presentation is about improving and maintaining self-image and confidence as well as appearance. Participants receive make-up, skin and hair care tips, a sample make-up kit valued at $250 from the American Cancer Society, wigs and other hair coverings. The class is taught by volunteer cosmetologists with specialized American Cancer Society training.
For upcoming dates and more information, contact 618.526-5672 or Kathy Timmermann.
“Look Good…Feel Better” classes are available nationwide. For more information, visit the national website at www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org .
