BeeGees hit helping patients in 'Stayin' Alive'

McKenzie Grace demonstrates proper compression techniques to Keith Helm and Coy Terry. (Courtesy photo)

McCOOK, Nebraska -- An old disco hit is a useful tool in timing a CPR technique, according to local instructors.

Five members of the McCook Community College 2010 Fall Paramedic Class conducted free mini sessions on Chest Compressions-Only CPR in the YMCA lobby from Wednesday evening.

The Chest Compression-Only CPR Sessions were conducted to raise awareness of the new type of CPR that is spreading throughout the nation.

According to the instructors, in order to maintain a proper rate when doing the chest compressions, one should think about the rhythm of the song by the Bee Gees, "Stayin' Alive," to reach the recommended 100 beats per minute.

Class members include: McKenzie Grace, Tom Wattenbarger, Brad Bryant, George Manuel and Jordan Gauby.

Anna Sis, YMCA Aquatic Director, said she was very pleased with the turnout for this first-time drop-in workshop.

About one third of the students that are enrolled in the YMCA's Live Y'ers Afterschool Program participated and were very intrigued with the workshop. Members of the public also stopped by to learn and review CPR skills. The Red Cross and/or American Heart Association Certification did not award certifications as this was an awareness class.