Empowering First Responders with Lifesaving Skills: IMU University’s BLS Training at Pure Life Society
On December 5, 2025, a team from the School of Medicine and Clinical Skills Department at International Medical University (IMU) conducted a Basic Life Support (BLS) Training and Health Education Project at Pure Life Society, located in Batu 6, Jalan Puchong. This initiative formed part of the IMU Cares community engagement program, which aims to promote health, safety, and emergency preparedness within underserved communities.
The training focused on caregivers, including house mothers, teachers, and staff members, equipping them with essential skills in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and choking management. In addition, children living in the facility participated in interactive demonstrations and refresher sessions concentrated on sex education and personal safety.
Collaboration with St. John Ambulance Malaysia played a significant role in the program, which provided participants with practical emergency response skills, thereby reinforcing IMU’s commitment to community outreach.
Community Needs Assessment
Prior to the training, a needs assessment was conducted to identify specific requirements within the community. Discussions with Sumathi, the General Manager, and Malar, an Educational Instructor, revealed a recent incident involving a cardiac emergency that underscored the urgent need for CPR and AED training. While initial plans had included nutritional and vision screenings, the project was adapted to prioritize lifesaving skills in response to this specific concern.
Structure of the Training
The training commenced with a BLS session for caregivers and teachers, led by IMU staff. Participants practiced adult CPR, managing choking incidents, and operating an AED using mannequins and training aids. At the same time, St. John Ambulance Malaysia conducted a two-hour CPR demonstration for children, employing storytelling and active participation to enhance engagement among different age groups.
In the afternoon, IMU facilitators led small-group sessions on sex education and personal safety, serving as a review from previous engagements held in 2024. Feedback from caregivers was positive, with many acknowledging the importance of the skills acquired. The children also demonstrated enthusiasm for the learning opportunities provided.
Reflections and Acknowledgments
Joann Lalita Nathan, a core facilitator of the project, highlighted the significance of the training, noting that the community’s urgent request for instruction reflected a critical need for lifesaving skills. Jacintha Anita Aroksamy added that the project was particularly relevant due to its direct response to a recent event, which provided additional motivation for participants.
Sumathi, the General Manager of Pure Life Society, expressed her appreciation for the training, emphasizing the value of the skills imparted. She reported, “The session was truly invaluable. We hope this collaboration continues—thank you to everyone who made today possible.”
Future Collaborations and Plans
The training, which included IMU Clinical Skills Department staff such as Joann Lalita Nathan, Jacintha Anita Aroksamy, Nithia Ramasamy, Dr. Jaiprakash Mohanraj, Dr. Heethal Jaiprakash, Dr. Sunil P, and Dr. Anupa Shivakumar, exemplifies the impact of community-focused engagement. The success of this initiative lays a groundwork for potential future collaborations, which may extend to certified training programs for caregivers.
This project highlights how partnerships can facilitate meaningful changes in the communities served by IMU.
*Prepared by A/Prof Jaiprakash Mohanraj, Human Biology Division, School of Medicine, IMU.*
