On June 16–17, 2025, a team of instructors from Poltava State Medical University conducted a series of hands-on first aid training sessions for 22 coaches from the “Olymp” Sports Club in Poltava. The training was held within the framework of the international project LIFESTRAND (ERASMUS-EDU-2023-CBHE).
At a time when military threats have become part of daily reality, the ability to provide rapid and proper first aid is not just a useful skill—it is a critically important survival tool. For this reason, the training program focused on real-life scenarios that both coaches and their athletes may encounter.
Participants learned essential first aid algorithms that can be decisive in the first few minutes after injury or the onset of a critical condition. The program covered: Basic Life Support (BLS), Control of severe bleeding using tourniquets, Immobilization of injured limbs, Emergency response to stroke, heart attack, seizures and airway obstruction
Special attention was paid to the management of casualties with penetrating injuries to the chest and abdominal cavities—situations where timely and correct action can be a matter of life or death.
The training sessions included both theoretical instruction and intensive hands-on practice using modern simulation equipment purchased under the LIFESTRAND project.
"Sports coaches work with young people every day. They are among the first who may need to provide first aid before emergency services arrive. That is why their training is of utmost importance," emphasized Serhii Kononenko, senior instructor of the project.
The training cycle concluded with a summary discussion where participants shared their impressions, highlighted key learning points, and expressed their readiness to apply the acquired skills in their daily professional activities.
The organizers express their sincere gratitude to all participants for their motivation and willingness to learn for the safety of those around them.
Special thanks to the LIFESTRAND instructor team:
Senior trainers: Serhii Kononenko, Volodymyr Koka
Junior trainers: Danylo Ovcharenko, Amaliia Asoyan
Background Information:
The LIFESTRAND project (ERASMUS-EDU-2023-CBHE) aims to strengthen the capacity of higher education institutions in the field of first aid by developing new educational materials (First Aid Manuals for staff, students, and community members), enhancing the qualifications of faculty staff and learners in both teaching and practicing first aid, including core life support and trauma-related emergency care. The project also seeks to improve first aid skills among civilians living in high-risk areas in Ukraine and Georgia.