Becoming Proficient in Oxygen Therapy: A Guide to Canadian Red Cross Oxygen Admiration Training with Delta Emergency in Calgary

Are you ready to become proficient in oxygen therapy? Look no further than the Canadian Red Cross Oxygen Therapy course, offered by Delta Emergency in Calgary. Whether you're an industrial first aid worker, a health care provider, or part of a pre-hospital care group, this training will equip you with the essential knowledge and skills to confidently administer supplemental oxygen when needed. In this blog post, we'll delve into the details of the Canadian Red Cross Oxygen Therapy course and how Delta Emergency is your go-to expert for O2 training in Calgary. Let's get started!

close-up view of an oxygen tank with a non-rebreather mask attached to it. The tank has a pressure gauge, flow meter, and a regulator attached to it.

What is the Canadian Red Cross Oxygen Therapy Course?

The Canadian Red Cross Oxygen Therapy course is designed to provide participants with comprehensive training on how to properly and safely administer supplemental oxygen. The course covers a wide range of topics, including pulse oximetry, handling and assembly of oxygen equipment, oxygen delivery devices, and administering oxygen. Participants will learn the correct techniques for delivering oxygen to patients of different ages and conditions, and how to monitor its effectiveness. The course is based on the guidelines and standards set by the Canadian Red Cross, a trusted organization with a long history of providing high-quality first aid and emergency response training.

Why Choose Delta Emergency for O2 Training in Calgary?

Delta Emergency is a leading provider of first aid and emergency response training in Calgary, and their expertise extends to oxygen therapy training as well. Here are some reasons why Delta Emergency is the go-to choice for O2 training in Calgary:

1. Experienced Instructors: Delta Emergency instructors are highly experienced and knowledgeable in oxygen therapy and other emergency response techniques. They bring real-world expertise and practical insights to their training, ensuring participants receive the best education possible.

2. Comprehensive Course Content: Delta Emergency's Canadian Red Cross Oxygen Therapy course covers all the essential topics needed to master oxygen therapy, including pulse oximetry, handling and assembly of equipment, oxygen delivery devices, and administering oxygen. The course is designed to be comprehensive and relevant to various professional settings.

3. Flexibility and Convenience: Delta Emergency offers flexible scheduling options for their courses, making it easy for participants to find a training session that fits their busy schedule. They also provide training at their state-of-the-art training facility in Calgary or can arrange on-site training at your location for added convenience.

4. Customized Training Solutions: Delta Emergency understands that different professionals have different needs, and they can customize their training to meet specific requirements. Whether you're part of an industrial first aid team or a health care provider, Delta Emergency can tailor their training to suit your needs and ensure you get the most out of the course.

5. Accreditation and Certification: Upon successful completion of the Canadian Red Cross Oxygen Therapy course with Delta Emergency, participants will receive certification that is recognized nationally and meets industry standards. This certification can enhance your professional credentials and give you a competitive edge in your field.

How long will my Oxygen Tank last?

Oxygen tanks have a specific numeric value called a factor, that correlates with the tank size. There is a simple calculation that tells us how long a tank of oxygen will last before it is empty - based on the liter flow of the oxygen regulator. A “D tank” (the common used in EMS/Fire) has a factor of 0.16.

Oxygen Calculation Samples:

Here are some sample calculations for a D tank with 2000 psi, using different devices and flow rates, to estimate the minutes left in the tank:

1. With a Nasal Cannula at 2 LPM: The flow rate for a nasal cannula is typically between 1-6 LPM. Let's calculate for 2 LPM.

Formula: (Tank Pressure in psi / Flow rate in LPM) x Constant Factor = Minutes Left

Calculation: (2000 psi / 2 LPM) x 0.16 = 160 minutes

So, with a nasal cannula at 2 LPM, you can estimate that the D tank will last approximately 160 minutes or 2 hours and 40 minutes.

1. With a Non-Rebreather Mask at 10 LPM: The flow rate for a non-rebreather mask is typically between 10-15 LPM. Let's calculate for 10 LPM.

Formula: (Tank Pressure in psi / Flow rate in LPM) x Constant Factor = Minutes Left

Calculation: (2000 psi / 10 LPM) x 0.16 = 32 minutes

So, with a non-rebreather mask at 10 LPM, you can estimate that the D tank will last approximately 32 minutes.

1. With a Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM) at 15 LPM: The flow rate for a BVM is typically between 10-15 LPM, depending on the specific device and oxygen concentration desired. Let's calculate for 15 LPM.

Formula: (Tank Pressure in psi / Flow rate in LPM) x Constant Factor = Minutes Left

Calculation: (2000 psi / 15 LPM) x 0.16 = 21.33 minutes

So, with a BVM at 15 LPM, you can estimate that the D tank will last approximately 21.33 minutes or approximately 21 minutes and 20 seconds.

Note: The constant factor of 0.16 is an estimated conversion factor used to convert tank pressure (psi) to minutes of oxygen supply remaining. It may vary slightly depending on factors such as temperature, altitude, and type of oxygen delivery device used. It's always important to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional for accurate calculations and usage of oxygen therapy.

The Tank Factor

Tank factor, also known as the constant factor, is a value used to estimate the remaining minutes of oxygen supply in a compressed gas cylinder based on its pressure and the flow rate of oxygen being administered. The tank factor is specific to the type of gas cylinder being used and is determined by the manufacturer.

The tank factor is used in the formula:

Minutes Left = (Tank Pressure in psi / Flow rate in LPM) x Tank Factor

The tank factor is a constant value that is multiplied by the ratio of the tank pressure to the flow rate to estimate the remaining minutes of oxygen supply. It takes into account the volume of gas stored in the cylinder and the flow rate of oxygen being delivered to the patient.

For example, a tank factor of 0.16 means that for every 1 psi decrease in tank pressure, approximately 0.16 minutes (or 9.6 seconds) of oxygen supply is used when delivering oxygen at a flow rate of 1 LPM. So, if you have a tank pressure of 2000 psi and you are delivering oxygen at a flow rate of 1 LPM, the estimated time remaining in the tank would be approximately 320 minutes (or 5 hours and 20 minutes) using the tank factor of 0.16.

It's important to note that the tank factor may vary depending on factors such as temperature, altitude, and type of oxygen delivery device used. Therefore, it's crucial to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional for accurate calculations and usage of oxygen therapy.

If you're looking to master oxygen therapy and enhance your emergency response skills, the Canadian Red Cross Oxygen Therapy course with Delta Emergency in Calgary is the perfect choice. With experienced instructors, comprehensive course content, flexibility, customization options, and accreditation, Delta Emergency is your trusted expert in O2 training. Enroll in their course today and take a step towards becoming a pro in oxygen therapy. You can breathe easy knowing you're in capable hands with Delta Emergency.

At Delta Emergency Support Training we are happy to answer any questions you may have about oxygen training. We provide training sessions for individuals or classes. We have options for in person, hybrid or online classes for Oxygen Therapy, Standard First Aid (SFA), Advanced First Aid (AFA), Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), and more courses. For all inquiries please email info@deltaemergency.com

"Ensuring Public Safety: The Crucial Role of Professional Responders in Calgary's Emergency Medical Response System"

In Calgary, Alberta, Canada, the first responder emergency medical response system is divided into three levels: First Responder, Advanced First Aid, and Emergency Medical Responder (EMR). These professional responders play a crucial role in responding to medical emergencies, providing initial care and support to the patients before they are transported to a medical facility for further treatment.

First Responders are typically the first on the scene of an emergency. They are often firefighters or police officers who have received additional training in emergency medical response. They are equipped with basic first aid equipment and are trained to provide initial care to patients until advanced medical support arrives. First responders can administer CPR, control bleeding, stabilize the spine, and perform other basic life support interventions.

Advanced First Aid responders are individuals who have undergone advanced first aid training, often in addition to their regular jobs. In Alberta, they are typically found in fire departments, workplaces such as construction sites, factories, and offices where there is a higher risk of accidents and injuries. Advanced first aid responders are equipped with additional first aid equipment and are trained to provide advanced first aid, including the administration of oxygen and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

Emergency Medical Responders (EMRs) are trained professionals who provide basic life support and emergency medical care. They are often the first medical professionals to arrive on the scene of an emergency, and they are trained to assess the patient's condition and provide necessary interventions such as administering oxygen, providing medications, Entonox for pain, and immobilizing the patient's spine. EMRs work closely with other medical professionals, including paramedics and emergency physicians, to ensure that the patient receives the appropriate level of care.

In Calgary, professional responders are trained and certified by the Canadian Red Cross - which sets standards for the education and training of medical professionals Delta Emergency Support Training ensures these standards are upheld and that all responders are well-trained, competent, and able to provide the highest level of care to patients in emergency situations.

The Alberta College of Paramedics holds the standards for EMS professions in Alberta, such as a provincially licensed EMR, PCP, ACP, and eventually, CCP.

In addition to their medical skills, professional responders in Calgary are also trained in communication and teamwork, which are essential skills in emergency response situations. They must be able to communicate effectively with patients, family members, and other medical professionals, and work together as a team to provide the best possible care.

In conclusion, professional responders play a crucial role in the emergency medical response system in Calgary. They provide initial care and support to patients in emergency situations and work closely with other medical professionals to ensure that patients receive the appropriate level of care. Their training and expertise make them an essential part of the healthcare system, and they are an integral part of the community's safety and well-being.

What is an EMR?

Behind the Scenes of an Emergency Medical Responder: Saving Lives with Speed and Skill

An Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) is a healthcare professional who is trained to provide immediate medical care in emergency situations. EMRs are often the first healthcare providers to arrive on the scene of an emergency, and they work closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive the appropriate care and treatment. EMRs are trained to provide basic life support measures, including administering CPR, controlling bleeding, treating shock, managing spinal injuries, and stabilizing fractures. They are also trained to manage patients with a variety of medical emergencies, including cardiac arrest, respiratory distress, and trauma. Here are some of the typical job functions of an EMR:

1. Assess the situation:

The first step for an EMR is to assess the situation for hazards that can harm themselves, their partners, and their patients, and determine the nature of the emergency. They need to determine the level of medical attention needed and make quick decisions based on their assessment.

2. Stabilize Patients:

EMRs are trained to stabilize patients by maintaining their airways and providing necessary interventions such as assisted ventilations, medical oxygen, life-threatening bleeding, and medication.

2. Administer First Aid:

EMRs are trained to provide basic-intermediate-advanced first aid such as CPR, wound management, and immobilization of injured patients.

4. Communicate with the medical team:

EMRs communicate vital information to the medical team, such as the patient's vital signs, symptoms, and any other relevant medical history.

5. Provide Emotional Support:

EMRs provide emotional support to patients and their families during times of crisis. They should be compassionate and empathetic, helping to ease the stress and anxiety that often come with medical emergencies.

6. Document the incident:

EMRs must document the incident, including vital signs, patient history, and any medical interventions administered.

7. Transport Patients:

EMRs are responsible for transporting patients to medical facilities safely. Overall, the role of an EMR is crucial in emergency medical situations, and they must be well-trained, quick-thinking, and compassionate individuals. EMRs work in a variety of settings, including ambulance services, fire departments, and hospitals. They play a critical role in the healthcare system by providing immediate medical care to patients in emergency situations, and their actions can often make the difference between life and death.

The road to EMR certification can be confusing. The EMR program is different in provinces like BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. The Canadian Red Cross EMR, AFA, or FR curriculum is identical across Canada but provincial standards and must be taught in respective provinces. At Delta Emergency, we understand what certifications you need for your future career, how and where to obtain them, and what type of work will be available to you when you’re fully certified. Reach out with questions!

BVM

Maintain an Airway, use HTCL or MJT, use Suction, insert an OPA or NPA, begin Ventilations and apply Oxygen. BLS, FR, AFA, and EMR

This is a basic and generalized overview of Emergency Medical Responders across North America. When in doubt, follow your local protocols! Contact us if you have any specific questions about the EMR scope of practice and career path in Alberta. We are industry experts and have been working full time in EMS for years.

At Delta Emergency Support Training we are happy to answer any questions you may have about becoming an EMR. We provide training sessions for individuals or classes. We have options for in person, hybrid or online classes for Standard First Aid (SFA) Advanced First Aid (AFA) and Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) courses. For all inquiries please email info@deltaemergency.com

Pocket Mask Requirements: First Aid Program Standards in 2021

Important changes to program standards

In the interest of public health during COVID-19 and beyond, please be advised the Canadian Red Cross program standards have been updated with respect to pocket masks in Red Cross First Aid training. All participants attending classroom training are required to have their own pocket resuscitation mask with single-use one-way valve.

Pocket masks must be new (if provided by the Training Partner) or previously owned by the participant only. While pocket masks are already used in training, they are typically decontaminated and reused along with a new one-way valve.

Purchase here: Pocket Mask

With this revised standard, the practice of decontaminating pocket resuscitation masks will be discontinued as masks may not be reused.

To ensure the safety of all students, course participants can bring their own pocket mask with a one-way valve, or they may opt to purchase one as an add-on item prior to class. Masks can be shipped to your home, or picked up on class day.

This new standard begins on March 31, 2021. Delta Emergency will adopt this new standard today, December 17, 2020. All courses that require mask ventilation training will be required to add a pocket mask at time of course purchase. If you choose not to buy a mask and do not have one on class day, you will be required to purchase one from your trainer in person before training can commence. If you refuse to purchase a mask in class, your participation will be marked as incomplete. We appreciate your understanding of this transition and we believe this will greatly reduce the risk of disease transmission for course participants.

Resources

Our COVID-19 protocols for classroom training have been revised to reflect this change. The courses this training will affect are:

• Emergency First Aid

• Standard First Aid

• CPR A, CPR C, BLS, AED

• Oxygen Therapy

• Airway Management

• Advanced First Aid

Please contact the Canadian Red Cross at 1-877-356-3226 with any questions regarding this new training standard. 

As always, the health and safety of our partners, Instructors, and course participants is our first priority. Thank you for your support in ensuring a safe training environment.