VA Caregiver Support Program Collaborates with Partners to Offer Vital CPR Training for Veteran Caregivers

NORTH LAS VEGAS, Nev. — The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Program (CSP) is pleased to announce a significant initiative aimed at empowering caregivers of Veterans with crucial lifesaving skills. In collaboration with the Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) and Simulation Learning, Evaluation, Assessment, and Research Network (SIMLEARN), CSP will be hosting two free cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training sessions at the North Las Vegas VA Medical Center.

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, Jan. 12, 2024
• Time Slots:
  • Morning Session: 9 - 11:15 a.m.
  • Afternoon Session: 12:30 - 2:45 p.m.

“The Caregiver Support Program remains steadfast in preparing Veterans’ caregivers with CPR skills to act swiftly and effectively in the critical moments following a cardiac arrest,” said Colleen M. Richardson, executive director of CSP in a recent VA News Article. “According to the American Heart Association, being trained to perform CPR can mean the difference between life and death, increasing the survival rate from around 10 percent to 40 percent or higher.” 

To ensure widespread access to this essential training, CSP program managers and VA staff will collaborate with CDCE Service Chiefs and SIMLEARN designated points of contact across the nation. The program has already successfully conducted training at eight sites nationwide, with plans for additional sessions throughout 2024.

"We understand that caregivers want to be equipped with the necessary skills to assist Veterans during emergencies. Our partnership with CDCE and SIMLEARN enables us to provide comprehensive CPR training tailored to their unique needs," said Richardson.

In addition to CPR training, CSP offers a range of resources to support Veteran caregivers, including respite care, peer support mentoring, virtual psychotherapy, legal and financial services, and the Caregivers FIRST training program. In fiscal year 2023, the VA provided caregiver support program services to over 74,000 Veteran caregivers participating in the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers and the Program of General Caregiver Support Services.

For caregivers seeking further information on available resources, visit the CSP website, subscribe to the email listserv, or contact your North Las Vegas VA Medical Center’s CSP team at sheri.shileika@va.gov.

About VA Caregiver Support Program:

The VA Caregiver Support Program provides comprehensive assistance and resources to Veterans' caregivers. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, CSP aims to enhance the health and well-being of caregivers and equip them with the skills necessary to support Veterans effectively.

Jaison Bloom, Public Affairs Specialist