Which skills in Red Cross courses are practiced only on a manikin?

The correct response highlights that ventilations, chest compressions, and AED pad placement are practiced only on a manikin during Red Cross courses. This is because manikins provide a safe and controlled environment for participants to develop and refine their skills without the risk associated with practicing on a live person.

Practicing chest compressions is crucial for lifeguard training; it allows students to gauge the proper depth and rhythm necessary for effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Additionally, AED pad placement is essential for effective defibrillation, and practicing on a manikin allows instructors to emphasize the correct positioning and technique without the complexities and ethical concerns of using a live subject. Lastly, practicing ventilations on a manikin helps ensure proper technique and timing, as well as the adequate seal needed to deliver effective breaths.

Hands-on practice with these critical skills is vital for building confidence and proficiency before an individual encounters a real-life emergency, making the use of manikins indispensable in the training process.