HEALTH BRIEFS
First responders receive new training

A new Mobile Outreach Education (MOE) Unit provided by Lifeguard Ambulance Service was used for the first time as part of a first responder training session for local firefighters on Thursday, March 6 at Santa Rosa County Emergency Management in Milton. The MOE Unit is an education and training trailer that can easily be transported throughout the county and is designed to simulate the back of an ambulance, including a complete stretcher system, an ambulance bench seat with cabinets, basic life support equipment, and a training manikin.

MOE Unit equipment and supplies include: airway training manikin, stretcher, oxygen cylinder, oxygen delivery devices, splints, stair chair, scoop stretcher, back boards, various bandages, KED, community first aid and safety supplies

With first aid and safety material for children and adults, Lifeguard Ambulance Service will use the unit as a community outreach and education resource. For more information about the MOE including event scheduling, contact Ryan Jenkins, Lifeguard Ambulance Service Fire Department liaison at 850-777- 4637 or 850-983-3000.

NPDA releases U.S.home care database

A nonprofit organization has launched the first comprehensive, searchable database of U.S. home care companies that adhere to training and supervisory guidelines, as well as background checks, for their employees.

The free database is located online at www.privatedutyhomecare. org.

The National Private Duty Association (NPDA) has launched a feature on its website that allows the public access to a searchable database of home care companies that follow guidelines established by the nation's leading home care association. The addition of this tool to the NPDA website should result in peace of mind for those seeking home care for a loved one.

The database allows consumers to search by company name, city, state or ZIP code. If using the ZIP code feature, a radius can be selected to narrow or broaden the results.

To earn a listing on the NPDA website, a company must fall into the private duty category.

For more information about the NPDA please visit the association's web site at www.privatedutyhomecare. org.

FDA approves new AIDS drug

On February 29, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted tentative approval for two generic formulations of drugs used to treat HIV/AIDS. Stavudine capsules, 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, and 40 mg., and efavirenz tablets, 600 mg, all manufactured by Hetero Drugs Limited, Hyberdad, India, were tentatively approved.