Emergency Medicine Interest Group Leads CPR & NARCAN Training

The CPR and drug overdose response training held on September 6th brought together 70 participants from the Washington Heights/Inwood and CUIMC community. Organized by the Emergency Medicine Interest Group, with co-leaders Zoie Richardson and Waymon Whiting, the workshop was supported by a grant from the Society of Academic Emergency Medicine (SAEM) and made possible through collaboration among Columbia School of Nursing students and faculty, PRO-SALUD Community Healthcare Workers, trainers from the CD-REACT initiative, VP&S students, the Office of Academic and Community Partnerships, Columbia and NYP residents and attendees, the Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging. 

The event featured hands-on practice of basic life skills across multiple stations, where participants learned when to perform CPR, recognize overdoses, administer the medication, and take home their own Narcan kits. Sessions were offered in both Spanish and English, ensuring accessibility for a diverse group of attendees. Many participants left with new skills and the confidence to respond in real-world emergencies. 

By combining practical training with interdisciplinary collaboration, the workshop equipped community members and CUIMC affiliates alike to take action during life-threatening situations. The event also strengthened partnerships across schools and organizations, laying the groundwork for future initiatives that bring vital health education directly to Northern Manhattan. 

To learn more about CPR + NARCAN training please visit https://www.acp.cuimc.columbia.edu/health-promotion/cd-react