The goal was to be prepared in time for ACAREG 2025, the major regional scout camping in Oporto region, which will take place between 5 and 10 August this year, in Aveiro, and where thousands of scouts from all sections are expected. At the request of Mindelo Scout Group 572, which is part of Corpo Nacional de Escutas, Hospital da Luz Póvoa de Varzim provided, last April 12, a training session on Basic Life Support (BLS) and first aid to the group’s scout leaders. The safety and welfare of the participants is fundamental in an event of such dimension. Therefore, scout leaders (as well as aspiring leaders) should learn quick and effective intervention techniques in case of emergency – from resuscitation manoeuvres and airway clearance to wound treatment and first aid, among other situations. This session has had for trainers Sónia Cancela and Sónia Silva, nurse specialists at Hospital da Luz Póvoa de Varzim, with the precious help of Sofia Peliteiro, their colleague – who as former girl scout encouraged this initiative. Resorting to manikin training, several topics were approached, such as adult and paediatric BLS, airway clearance and first aid (in cases of hypoglycaemia / hyperglycaemia, contusion, sprain and fracture, convulsion, syncope, burn, asthma attack, biting and stinging, allergic reaction, and haemorrhage). There was also opportunity to discuss the theme “Anxiety and panic attacks”: nurse Melanie Rocha, specialist in psychiatric and mental health at Hospital S. João, Oporto, explained how to identify signs of anxiety and how to act adequately and empathically in situations of emotional crisis. Hospital da Luz offered the scout group first aid hospital material (blood glucose meters, medical ice bags, haemorrhage tourniquets, medical gauzes, medical pads, and face masks). Hospital da Luz Póvoa de Varzim thanks for the invitation and trust showed by Mindelo Scout Group 572. Considering the commitment and engagement of all the participants, we are certain that they are now much better prepared to react in case of emergency. Proximal collaboration with institutions in the community, as is the case of Corpo Nacional de Escutas, is the way to fulfil our commitment to promote health literacy and empowerment.
