How often have we failed to save a person in a critical situation due to myths and misconceptions? Whether through one-on-one interaction or the internet or social media platforms, the answer may alarm you, or maybe not. We live in a digital era where information is readily available in the palm of our hands. While these facts can be a plus in terms of offering easier solutions such as online CPR certification, the information available on these platforms can, to a larger extent, lead to the spread of false or uncurated information. When we are exposed to such information, it tends to influence our decision.
Each of us must acquire a CPR certification before practicing on another person. But the myths that range from the training to practical practices have been a challenge to overcome. Here are some of the myths that surround the practice and proper training of CPR certification:
1. CPR Learning Needs Professionalism
Many people have been misguided into thinking that you must be a doctor or a paramedic practitioner to learn CPR. We tend to believe that when it comes to saving the lives of people in an emergency situation, a doctor or medical professionals should be present or actively involved to increase the chances of survival before the emergency medical team arrives on site. This illusion has led to the loss of life that could have otherwise been saved with simple steps and strategies taught during CPR certification classes.
If we think of ourselves as saviors to an extent, we might discover the advantages of getting trained to perform chest compressions correctly. The truth is, attending classes for CPR certification can be done by anyone, regardless of your profession. All you need is willingness, a certified training class, and a trainer. This way, the survival rates of deaths resulting from cardiac arrest, heart attack, and other life-threatening emergencies will be minimized.
2. CPR Can Cause Injuries
The performance of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation involves exerting pressure on the chest of the victim of cardiac arrest and sometimes giving rescue breaths. These acts are meant to introduce air into the lungs and prompt breathing. Unfortunately, this pressure can cause some bruising or injury to the lungs. The same situation can be applied when medicating a patient using needles; they may get sore skin at the point of injection, but it’s on the way to recovery.
Yes, the injuries do and may occur. But these injuries heal with time, and the big picture is that a life is saved that would have otherwise succumbed to death in the absence of CPR.
3. It Is Barely a Necessity
Not every day will you encounter a patient requiring CPR, so why bother? It is assumed that medical emergencies that may require CPR-certified personnel rarely happen and when/if they do, they require the attention of a certified medical practitioner. Just because you don’t meet people needing CPR and first aid attention doesn’t make the skill lose its value.
According to research by the American Heart Association, more than ¾ percent of cardiac arrest cases are likely to die due to a lack of timely response. In addition, a lack of interest in training causes a lack of timely response. Therefore, if more people show interest in attaining physical or online CPR certification, we will have more certified individuals who will save more lives.
4. Rescue Breathing Is a Mandatory Practice In CPR
If you have gone to a certified center or taken CPR online certification from a reliable training center, you will know that the performance of CPR will involve the use of hands only CPR and mouth to mouth resuscitation. CPR is performed to introduce more air into the lungs to attain regularized breathing.
Most people have been misguided into believing that mouth to mouth is mandatory and thus are afraid of being exposed to germs and diseases. As a certified CPR practitioner, you can perform hand-only CPR as long as it saves lives. In addition, protective measures can be used in the case of mouth to mouth practice.
5. A One-Time CPR Certification Is Enough
How many times should you attend CPR certification classes? There have been several myths and stories told regarding this question. The truth is, attending a physical or online CPR certification class is a bold and rather very important move. It is important to note that once you have heard your first CPR training and certification courses, you will require annual refresher courses.
This is important to ensure that when CPR is performed, it is done right away to avoid accidents, injuries, or even death. It also keeps you updated as a person that can perform CPR.
6. Legal Woes In Case Of Injuries or Death
Sometimes the best efforts of trying to save lives may lead to casualties. Many people have used this idea to scare off those who want to participate in CPR classes. But unfortunately, accidents happen in the pursuit of good acts to save lives and situations. And sometimes, the situation cannot be saved despite all the efforts put in place.
The law recognizes good deeds and, therefore, shouldn’t be a reason for a person not to help in situations where death is a viable option. You can never be blamed for trying to save a life.
7. You Can Take a Full CPR Certification Online
The beauty of the internet generation is the availability of all the necessary information online. All the resources are found online, including the proper information to perform CPR. Some videos provide a step by step guidance on the same. Some of the organizations have gone a step further to being able to provide an online tutor for the students.
The internet has made online CPR certification easy and convenient. While this gives the student exposure to the theoretical aspect, a physical class is advised to get practical lessons on a person or by using a mannequin.
Conclusion
CPR certification is an important step that most individuals should consider as it puts them in a position to save lives. With CPR online training programs, it should be easy to get the necessary information to learn lifesaving skills like performing CPR, using Automated External Defibrillator, Basic First Aid, and Basic Life Support.
Ideally, a solution shouldn’t be based on the ideas and perspectives of one person. Therefore, before a resolution is reached, proper research is mandated. This will include reading widely on the subject and consulting the professionals and relatable organizations in the field.
