by Nina Vaclavikova
Interviews: Aneta Aleksova, Cardiologist, professor at the University of Trieste (UniTS), and scientific director of the Center for Medical Simulation and Advanced Training (CSMAA); affiliated with ASUGI; Roberto Di Lenarda, President of the Permanent Conference of Medical School Deans
The University of Trieste held a public training session Friday at Cattinara Hospital to teach residents how to recognize cardiac arrest and respond before emergency services arrive.
The event, titled “Saving a Life in a Heartbeat,” took place at the university’s Center for Medical Simulation and Advanced Training in observance of World Restart a Heart Day.
Led by cardiologist Aneta Aleksova, a university professor and scientific director of the center, and Alberto Peratoner, director of territorial emergency services at the regional health authority ASUGI, the initiative emphasized the importance of rapid intervention and bystander participation in cardiac emergencies.
The program included a live demonstration of emergency response procedures, an explanation of how Italy’s 112 emergency number operates and a discussion with cardiologists and anesthesiologists. Participants also practiced chest compressions, ventilation techniques and the use of automated external defibrillators on training mannequins.
The initiative drew on research coordinated by Aleksova and presented at the 2025 ESC Acute CardioVascular Care congress, which highlighted the importance of prompt cardiopulmonary resuscitation and assistance from people at the scene.
Medical students from the University of Trieste and staff from the simulation center helped conduct the activities. The event was supported by medical societies, the university’s Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, and the Trieste medical association.
