Heimlich at a play

[BioRN]

I am a nursing student on a waiting list for a ADN program. Last month, I became certified in CPR and the Heimlich. I was waiting for a High School Play to begin when a 4 year old child began choking. The mother hit her on the back and the child completely stopped breathing. The mother screamed for a CPR certified person or a doctor to help. I responded by saying I could help and she handed me her child. I did one Heimlich and the candy she was choking on came out. I was very careful with my hand position and to move in and then up. The mother was very pleased and the child cried for about 10 minutes and then the play began. During intermission the mother asked for my name and I gave it to her. I asked the child if she felt sore anywhere and she responded that only her throat hurt. The child sat through the 2 hour play quietly. Did I do everything right? Should I worry about legal issues or am I covered by good samaritain laws? Should I feel just proud? I feel that I did everything correctly but I am nervous. My family is calling me a hero. What do you all think?

tabrc

[Robin61970]

I hate the fact that whenever we help anyone anymore we feel we have to worry about legal issues...that is so sad. I say you did great....I would rather have someone who could do that for me than to have a dead child, of course I wouldn't sue someone over broken ribs if they saved my life either......it's sad that people would do such as that

[susanmary]

You should be so proud of yourself! You stepped forward and did what you were trained to do. The mom asked for someone who was trained, you told her you were, and she handed over her child. You behaved within the scope of your CPR certification. Relax -- and be proud of yourself. The mom just probably wanted to know your name. If I were the mom, I would want your name and address -- so that I could write you the most wonderful thank you note FOR SAVING MY DAUGHTER'S LIFE and send you the most wonderful bunch of flowers ever grown. God Bless you. You ARE most definitely a hero. You SAVED a child's life. Reflect on THAT.

[Ortho_RN]

I think you are covered by the Good Samaritan Law.. The problem actually would have been if you just stood there and watched, and then they found out you are certified in CPR and the Heimlich... The old saying we are told is "If you aren't gonna help, then don't stop" (in car accident situations)... But I don't know if I could sleep, knowing that I could have possibly helped...

Congrats... Enjoy being called a hero.. :)

[BioRN]

Thank you all for your responses and praise. I know I will sleep better tonight.

tabrc

[jessjoy]

I agree with what Robin61970 said. It is a sad state to have to worry about frivalous law suits and such. From what you said you have nothing to worry about. I am sure you have nothing to worry about. Just think, that was your first patient and from what I can tell you will be a wonderful nurse!

[Cubby]

BRAVO!!!!!! Stand tall and be proud.

[jschut, BSN, RN]

I think I definitely would rather have you around as to have a nurse who wouldn't do anything. I've actually heard them say to NOT stop when you see something going on...

But you...you should be proud. I'm proud of ya!:)

Good Job!

Julie