Students get physical with EMR class
For students interested in improving and contributing to our community in positive ways, there are many opportunities available to get involved on campus. One of them is Casey Graham’s Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) class. “The class is sort of an intro to emergency medical technician studies,” Graham said. Students will leave the class prepared to enter Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) classes and fields throughout California.
Olivia Grandy, freshman, learned about the EMR class through a friend who recommended the course. “I didn’t expect lots of hands-on work going into the class, but it’s definitely something we do almost every time,” Grandy said.
This year, the students have already been connected with EMT professionals, and focused on CPR training. “I enjoy the final skills testing and watching the students who have practiced hands-on skills, which include things like doing CPR, and putting a patient with a possible broken neck on a backboard.” Graham said.
Maggie Winick, freshman, looking to pursue a medical career in the future, signed up for the class to try to gain the experience she wants in that field. “I loved learning CPR, and I am looking to be an EMT in the future when I turn 18,” Winick said. Winick’s biggest takeaway from the class has been the life-saving skills she has learned, and her new understanding of medical events that occur around her.
Graham utilizes his background as a lifeguard and harbor patrol officer for Ventura County to help students explore all kinds of medical and safety fields, in addition to teaching for about 30 years. “I’ve been doing it for a long, long time,” Graham said.
With his wide range of skill and background in the medical field, Graham familiarizes students with fire safety, law enforcement protocol, state and national park services, marine rescue and emergency medical services. On top of all this, Graham also incorporates guest speakers and field trips into his curriculum.
Students will also learn real-world applicable skills that can help them advance in the medical field and with the job application process, with experiences such as CPR and TargetSolutions certification. “Students learn all of the skills related to responding to sick and injured patients in the emergency setting,” Graham said.
Graham also helps students explore topics like preparatory courses for EMT programs, areas of human anatomy and physiology, first aid and CPR and pre-hospital care. “I would suggest this class to anyone who might want a job in that field, and also might want to get some ideas of what [emergency responders] actually do,” Grandy said.
Grandy remarked that the course has already solidified her confidence in her ability to help people in the case of an emergency. “I am looking into careers in this field, but also I am using this class to learn valuable life skills,” Grandy said.
