Rankin Inlet (Mar 09/05) - Twelve nurses from across the Kivalliq region gathered in Rankin Inlet this past month for a three-day course in handling trauma victims.

The Trauma Nursing Core Course was held at the home-care office and was sponsored by Keewatin Air.

Nurses from Rankin, Baker Lake, Arviat, Whale Cove, Repulse Bay and Coral Harbour attended.

The program provided the participants with the theory and skills to handle trauma victims and stabilize them in preparation for transport to a trauma centre.

The training included the initial assessment and management of life-threatening problems, as well as the conducting of a head-to-toe examination and identification of a full range of injuries.

Keewatin Air president and chief-executive officer Bob May said the program is offered in Canada, the U.S.A., Australia and parts of Europe.

"Not only do the nurses who attend the program improve their own skills, but they also return to their home communities and share their new skills and knowledge with their colleagues," said May.

The nurses covered such topics as the management of head-and-spinal trauma, chest injuries, abdominal-and-pelvic trauma, extremity, obstetrical and burn trauma.

The management of adult and pediatric patients was discussed during the program.

The nurses also gained skills related to spinal immobilization, use of splints, and the management of obstructed airways using basic and advanced care modalities.

The care of patients with chest tubes was practised in a lab setting. Participants were tested on both their theory and practical skills.

May said Keewatin Air is working closely with the Department of Health and Social Services in the Kivalliq region to promote its goal of learning closer to home.

"We've been quite proactive in helping the department reach its goals.

"During the past year, we've also provided advanced cardiac life support courses in Rankin Inlet and we've provided in-services on brain injury, CPR and first-aid training in most Kivalliq communities."