All Hands Meeting - April 2015

By Maj Kumar Misra, Lt Col Tinnirello and 1st Lt Karin Hollerbach
Photos by Lt Col Tinnirello

1st Lt Matthew Gast, Capt Terence Wilson,
Capt Luis Rivas

Capt Luis Rivas mentioned the many accomplishments of squadron members from last month.  Several people received commendations as well as promotions.

Promotions and Awards

Capt Georgios Michelogiannakis, Capt Luis Rivas

• 2d Lt Terence Wilson was promoted to Capt.
• Capt Georgios Michelogiannakis and 1st Lt Robert Kraus received the Red Service Award, to recognize their 2 years of membership in good standing.
• Capt Georgios Michelogiannakis was awarded the Find Ribbon after achieving his first non-distress find; 1st Lt Matthew Gast was given the propeller device to add to his existing Find Ribbon.
• 2d Lt Tim Roberts was awarded his Mission Scanner ES rating.
• 1st Lt Matthew Gast was awarded a Cadet Orientation Pilot Ribbon.
• 1st Lt Mike Cao was awarded a Counter Drug Ribbon.

Congratulations to all members for their achievements and their continuing dedication to CAP’s mission and ongoing training.

1st Lt Mike Cao, Capt Luis Rivas

Safety Orientation: Blood Borne Pathogens
Maj Kumar Misra presented this month’s Safety Orientation.

1st Lt Robert Kraus, Capt Luis Rivas

As first responders, it is essential for us to know what dangers are posed when arriving to a scene.  While numerous concerns must be accounted for, preventable issues must be on the forefront of one's mind.

Blood borne pathogens are high on the list of issues to be mindful of, as one of them is outright preventable (Hepatitis B) with a vaccination series.

The other two pathogens (Hepatitis C and HIV) also pose serious threats, and contact precautions (such as using disposable gloves) must be used to best minimize the chances of disease contraction.

Exposure to fresh blood is the most dangerous way to contract these pathogens, especially if the exposure happens to an open wound and/or to mucous membranes, such as to the eyes.

Maj Kumar Misra

One must seek immediate care from a skilled healthcare professional of the healing arts in such an instance (i.e., MD, NP, PA) to determine whether PEP (post exposure prophylaxis) may be indicated.