CPR is a life-saving measure that everyone should know how to perform. If you can’t afford the time or money to take a traditional CPR certification course, there are many reputable training providers that offer online CPR training for both healthcare providers and lay people. Read on to learn how to choose the best online CPR certification course.
How To Choose Online CPR and First Aid Training Course?
You should consider various factors when choosing CPR and first aid online courses.
Choose an Accredited Institution
While a single agency or institution cannot accredit a CPR class in most states, any individual or commercial can offer some training and provide a certificate to prove you are fully accredited. Most US employers accept accreditation from the national safety council, the American heart association, and the American red cross. The institutions provide guidelines for taking care of a wide range of health emergencies.
It is best to research the institution and determine if it is legitimate, as the charges for accredited institutions might be higher than others you'll find online. The only line certification you choose should be well-known with good reviews. Prominent institutions such as USCPROnline, which have been providing the service for years with excellent results, are typically a good choice.
Course Cost
After choosing accredited institutions, you need to assess the costs of the certification against your budget. If the institution is accredited, always go for the affordable course. In an organizational setting, you should be able to talk to your employers before taking any of the online CPR classes. Most of these free online classes only charge a minimal fee to cater to your certificate. Most online CPR courses are charged between $15 and $50. These online classes cannot equip you with the confidence required when saving a life during a life-threatening situation because the online courses lack teaching devices and hands-on instructions.
Your training needs and the nature of your work
It is important to evaluate your first aid needs before enrolling in a certification program. Many institutions offer specialized programs for different professions. If you are seeking training for your team, it is best to consult with your institution of choice to see what options are available. Online learning and in person training are the main learning styles you can choose.
Most institutions will provide a training package for different groups and professionals. You can work together to assess your training needs if the institution does not offer those specialized programs. From there, the institution can provide you with the necessary certification program.
In addition, the first aid certification should also suit your family's needs. If you have a family member with a certain health condition, you might want to take a first aid course to help you provide better care. Those with small children also need to take up training courses that are more aligned with the needs of children. CPR and some first aid procedures for children and adults differ. You should always consult with the institution to provide the best program.
Importance of First Aid and CPR Training
First aid and CPR are essential life skills in everyday life. CPR and first aid skills are easy to acquire and are available for anyone regardless of age and education. Here are some advantages of First aid and CPR certification online:
CPR/First Aid Saves Lives
More heart attacks and cardiac emergencies would survive if more people were knowledgeable about first aid and the performance of CPR. Some medical emergencies require quick action to save the life of the victim. The chances of survival of cardiac arrest victims are dependent on the availability of someone who can perform CPR and how fast emergency medical help can arrive. With so many health emergencies occurring at home, the life you save could be that of a loved one.
It is trainable for anyone
CPR is trainable to anyone, even if you are not in the healthcare field. In fact, the American Heart Association encourages everyone to learn basic life support skills such as CPR and First Aid. The courses are available to persons of all ages and educational qualifications, leaving no excuse for not learning lifesaving skills and holding the certification.
It's ideal for emergency responders, law enforcement, teachers, security guards, child care providers, housekeeping, and janitorial staff.
Emergencies can occur anywhere when least expected
CPR and first aid-certified persons remain limited. CPR skills are very much needed in our society as no one sees such emergencies. When crises occur at home and to a loved one, a skilled family member would know how to act, especially if no one else is around to help.
CPR prevents brain death
People who experience cardiac arrest risk suffering permanent brain damage, which could leave them bedridden or unable to perform normal daily functions. The chest compressions performed on cardiac arrest victims ensure the brain retains the required oxygen to prevent the massive death of its cells.
It gives one the confidence to save lives
CPR and first aid-trained persons can give quality first aid where needed and save lives. Every second that passes without CPR is a step to the grave in a cardiac arrest situation. Most bystanders are reluctant to offer assistance to injured victims as they fear hurting them the victim. The skills and knowledge acquired in first aid certification offer the expertise that makes the individual ready to take up any emergencies.
Recognizing different emergency cases for proper management
Early recognition of cardiac arrest and other emergency cases allows for saving a life. The ability to distinguish one emergency situation from another is very critical. An unskilled person can easily misdiagnose and give the wrong assistance, risking the victim's life.
CPR boosts self-worth
Online CPR certification courses increase a person's value and self-worth. Any knowledge of first aid is an asset to the owner. In this certification training, learners acquire new skills and a wealth of knowledge they didn't have before. Whenever you save a person's life, you become a hero to that person and those that care about him or her. It also leaves you with a sense of fulfillment. On the other hand, being a bystander in an emergency leaves you guilty if the person involved dies. With CPR and first aid certification, you always know how to act alone or in teams and offer the necessary help.
The skills and certification could earn you your next job
CPR and first aid certification is a requirement in some careers, such as those of a lifeguard and security guards. If you are interested in pursuing such careers, your CPR and first aid certification will come in handy.
CPR offers hope and prevents panicking
Health emergencies cause much anxiety and uncertainty to loved ones. A skilled person is the only source of hope for the victim before emergency medical assistance arrives. Training offers skills to manage a healthy emergency and calm people around to prevent panic.
Conclusion
If Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is not administered within the first two minutes after a person's heart stops, that person may have no chance of living. Furthermore, if CPR is not performed promptly, the person may suffer brain damage due to a lack of blood flow to the brain. CPR entails compressions of the chest and heart to increase blood flow to the brain. In most institutions, CPR training also encompasses Automated External Defibrillators (AED).
Most employers in the United States accept CPR certification from the national safety council, the American heart association, and the American red cross. CPR training for groups are also available in person and on online platforms. With just a few hours to spare, anyone can take up first aid certification from the comfort of their home with only a computer and Internet access. You can test your knowledge by taking an american red cross first aid practice test.
Upon completion of the online training materials, participants must go through an online certification exam before getting their completion cards. Those who pass will obtain a digital certificate via email, and the actual CPR certification card will be delivered within 2-5 business days. BLS online renewal courses are also available for healthcare providers who wish to recertify.
