How to take a local CPR and First Aid Certification class

Learning how to administer CPR and basic first aid is something that many people commit to each year. Some people choose to learn CPR and First Aid in order to fulfill a job requirement, while some choose to earn their certification for their own fulfillment. No matter what your motivation is, learning these skills can save a life and if you don't already have your certification, now is a great time to consider getting it done.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• internet access
• phone book
• telephone

1. CPR certification courses are readily available online through a variety of organizations. These classes offer limited instruction and student feedback, making the information that you learn difficult to retain. Many employers will not accept CPR and First Aid online certification class certification, and for good reason. The quality of the instruction in these courses is questionable and you will probably finish your class wondering if you really know how to perform CPR.

2. If you truly want to gain your CPR certification, contact your local American Red Cross to find out about their available upcoming classes. For a small fee, you will join a class with other students and spend the day learning the skills you need to earn your CPR certification. You will also learn basic first aid and how to use an AED (automatic external defibrillator). You will have the added benefit of being able to interact with other students and the opportunity to ask questions of your CPR instructor as they arise. Your CPR trainer will be able to demonstrate correct technique for you, and be able to correct you as necessary. Your CPR/1st Aid provider may also be able to provide you with a CPR challenge examination, where you will be able to demonstrate your skills and earn your certification upon completion.

3. Alternatively, you can do an internet search for CPR certification providers or check your local telephone directory to find listings of CPR classes and first aid certification courses. Finding an organization that provides CPR lessons or first responder courses is not difficult; you will need to evaluate the course components to ensure that it will fulfill your needs. Some of the CPR providers will be names that are familiar to you, such as the American Red Cross, or American Heart. Some may not be familiar, so you will need to ask them which certification you will be receiving should you decide to take a certification class with them. The fees will vary from provider to provider, and while it is important to compare your prices, the quality of your instruction is also an important consideration.

4. Attend your class wearing comfortable clothing, and ready to learn. You will be doing quite a bit of floor work, so you might want to bring a cushion or small pillow so that your knees don't hurt. All breathing barriers, alcohol wipes, manikins and other training aids should be provided to you by the CPR training provider. To be safe, be sure to ask what materials you will be responsible for bringing to class, and what materials they will be providing for your use.

Tips & Warnings

• Your motivation for earning your CPR certification should help you decide which type of class you need to be taking.
• If you attend a typical certification course, it will probably be an all day class. Bring lunch and be prepared.

Resources

• American Heart
• CPR Classes
• 321 CPR
• American Red Cross
• CPR AED Course

[sunlover393]

on 3/25/2009 Great article! Very important information!

[goldiec]

on 3/11/2009 I just completed a CPR class through my CERT team. I've had both the short version and long version of CPR. Thanks for sharing 5* I believe everyone should take these classes.