Cardiac arrest is one of the most prevalent medical emergencies. Nine out of ten people in the United States encounter it outside of a hospital setting. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a sought-after treatment that improves survival chances. The combination of chest compressions with rescue breaths preserves brain function until paramedics arrive. An accepted CPR/AED course is the best way to acquire knowledge of life saving techniques. It is an easy procedure and can be learned at your own pace. On completion of the course, participants receive a CPR card, valid for two years. Let us discuss more about CPR/AED certification and its validity.
What are the CPR class levels?
CPR keeps the blood flowing in the brain and other vital organs of the body until additional help arrives. It is a crucial tool in life-threatening situations such as cardiac arrest and choking. CPR is the shortest of all medical training courses. Here are the CPR class levels:
- Adult CPR Classes: This is the easiest form of CPR that covers basic CPR administration techniques for adults, teens, and adolescents.
- Pediatric CPR Classes: This class is ideal for administering CPR to children below eight years old. The resuscitation techniques for adults and children differ broadly. For example, the chest compression ratio for adults is 30 compressions, whereas for children below 8 years, it is 15.
All you need is the enthusiasm to learn the course and the time to take it. Do not worry, as it only takes around 2–6 hours. You do not need to know anything about CPR beforehand. These classes do not have any prerequisites and are for everyone. Click here to get more info about HeartSine samaritan.
What do you learn in a CPR class?
CPR class teaches everything about resuscitation techniques, using AED, recognizing signs of cardiac arrest and a lot more. Keep reading to explore them in-depth.
- CPR administration: A CPR class teaches updated guidelines for performing resuscitation. It involves chest compressions, performing rescue breaths, and using an automated external defibrillator (AED). Depending on the CPR class you have chosen, you will learn to perform the skill on an adult or child.
- Ways to use an AED: CPR classes also teach ways to use an AED. Participants learn to access the machine and apply defibrillator pads safely. This knowledge helps individuals use the device to deliver electric shock.
- Ways to identify signs of cardiac arrest: It is crucial to identify the warning signs. Your course materials will teach you to pinpoint the signs of cardiac arrest. This helps practitioners take immediate action.
- Ways to help someone who is choking: It teaches signs to identify choking and helps perform the Heimlich maneuver, a technique used to treat airway obstructions.
- First aid basics: Several CPR classes may also teach basic first aid skills. The common skills involve first aid techniques to stop bleeding and treat animal attacks and trauma such as an accident.
What to expect when taking a CPR test?
Although the word test might scare you, do not worry; the CPR test is extremely easy. It involves multiple-choice questions to test your knowledge of the lessons. An example of a question is, How many compressions do you need to give to a child?
You need to have a score of 75% or higher to pass the test. However, if you do not qualify for any reason, you can reappear for the examination. The most vital part of the CPR test is the practical administration. All you need to do is perform CPR effectively.
How long does it take to get CPR/AED certified?
It takes around 2–6 hours to get CPR/AED certification, depending on the course provider. The basic CPR/AED course takes 2.5–3 hours, and for healthcare providers, it takes about 5 hours.
What are the age criteria for CPR/AED certification?
There are no age criteria for learning the course. This is because the administration of CPR depends more on strength than age. Moreover, several studies have shown that children have successfully learned and administered CPR skills. Not all children might have the required strength to perform adequate chest compression. Participants must consult the specific organization before enrolling.
Is CPR required if there is no pulse?
If the victim does not have a pulse but is breathing and conscious, you must administer CPR. It is essential to monitor the victim carefully and seek medical assistance.
Conclusion
CPR is thus an easy-to-learn procedure divided into adult and pediatric classes. The classes are beneficial in teaching basic lifesaving skills such as CPR, AED usage, and signs to identify a cardiac arrest. It takes 2–6 hours to get certified and offers a CPR card upon completion. Anyone can enroll in a CPR/AED course online, as there are no age criteria. Seek the course and be the real hero in someone’s life.