Where to Get CPR Certified

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) involves performing chest compressions and rescue breathing on a person whose heart stops working properly. When the heart does not pump blood efficiently to the vital organs such as the brain, death can occur quickly. CPR can keep the blood pumping through the body and may save a life. Learning how to do CPR correctly is essential for it to be effective. Classes are offered by a variety of agencies. Follow the steps below to find where you can get CPR certified and be prepared in an emergency.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine the type of certification you want. Not every CPR class is the same. Some classes include child and infant CPR, others only include adult CPR. Certain CPR classes are intended for first responders such as fireman. Not every agency offers each type of CPR class.

2. Contact your local office of national non-profit agencies. The American Red Cross and the American Heart Association offer CPR classes. These national organizations have regional offices located throughout the United States. Both agencies have websites where you can locate the office nearest to you.

3. Call your local hospital. Many hospitals have community education classes open to the public, such as CPR. If you are looking for a CPR class for first responders, hospitals usually offer this type of class. Keep in mind non-hospital employees will likely be charged a fee for class.

4. Visit your local parks and recreation department. Many communities offer various types of classes including CPR through their city's parks and recreation department. Classes are generally offered a few times a year.

5. Consider online classes. Several private companies operate online CPR classes. Always checkout an online CPR class to determine who, if any reputable organization they are affiliated with. For example some online companies are affiliated with the American Red Cross. Keep in mind online classes prevent you from having hands-on experience practicing CPR on a mannequin.

6. Ask about study materials prior to attending the class. Some organizations will provide written information covered in the class in advance, this allows you to be better prepared to pass the class.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep price in mind. Different organizations charge different amounts. CPR certification usually lasts two years and than a renewal class needs to be taken to maintain current certification. Renewal classes generally cost less than initial certification classes.
• Be aware some CPR classes have a limit to class size and may fill up fast. Call the agency, hospital or organization you select in advance to reserve your spot.

Resources

• The American Red Cross
• The American Heart Association

[jroberts113]

on 4/29/2009 I got my cpr certification on line. It was a quick and easy was to get CPR certificate. I used www.NationalCPRCertification.com they were very good.