CPR certification in New Hampshire

American Training Association for CPR provides online CPR & First Aidtraining and certification that is available to all New Hampshire residents, including those in Nashua and Manchester.

What is CPR?

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is used to save lives during a cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest happens if the heart unexpectedly stops beating. Blood contains oxygen, which the body’s major organs, like the brain and liver, need to survive. Without a heartbeat, the heart cannot pump blood to these organs, and without oxygen, severe brain damage occurs within four minutes and death occurs within ten minutes. CPR manually pumps blood to the organs when cardiovascular complications prevent the heart from doing so.

What are the basic guidelines for performing CPR?

During a cardiac arrest, a victim’s chance of survival decreases with every second that passes. Rescuers must perform CPR as soon as possible after a victim collapses. To begin, rescuers should check the victim for responsiveness and check for a pulse. If there is no pulse, they should call 911 and immediately begin CPR.
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that rescuers use the following steps when performing CPR:

• Placing the hands on top of one another and keeping the arms straight, rescuers should position their body directly above the victim’s chest.
• Rapidly pump the victim’s chest at a rate of 120 compressions per minute. Ensure that each compression presses a minimum depth of 2 inches into the chest and that the chest recoils between compressions.
• Do not stop compressions until emergency personnel can take over.
• Compressions-only CPR is the most basic technique, and it is recommended for rescuers who are not CPR certified. Certified rescuers can perform rescue breathing when the victim is not breathing on their own.
• To perform rescue breathing, rescuers must first clear the airway by tilting the head back. Next, they will place their mouth on top of the victim's mouth to form a seal and deliver one rescue breath, looking to see if the victim’s chest inflates. If it does, the rescuer may return to performing chest compressions. If the chest does not rise, give the second breath then resume chest compressions and continue to deliver 2 rescue breaths for every 30 chest compressions. Repeat this 30:2 ratio of compressions to breaths until the victim is breathing normally or until emergency medical support arrives.

When is compressions-only CPR recommended?

The AHA recommends the compressions-only method for people who do not have CPR certification. The compressions-only method is the simplest form of CPR while also being effective at keeping a cardiac arrest victim alive until emergency personnel arrives. It is the easiest method that allows rescuers to follow telephone instructions from a 911 dispatcher while performing compressions-only CPR. CPR with rescue breathing is a more complicated procedure, and the AHA recommends this technique for those who have are certified.

Where can I find CPR and BLS classes near me?

Basic Life Support (BLS), CPR, and first aid courses are available in any major city in New Hampshire, including Laconia and Portsmouth. Hospitals, community centers, and local health organizations will offer certification classes, typically on evenings and weekends. Many individuals prefer to the convenience of completing online classes where they can complete their certification from home and on their schedule. Free online courses teach basic CPR and first aid but do not provide formal certification. For a small fee, individuals can upgrade to classes that offer full certification.

What techniques will I learn in a first aid class?

First aid classes will teach basics and techniques for treating accidental injuries including choking, poisoning, seizures, burns, cuts, fractures and sprains, and head injuries. Many courses teach additional skills for first responders or cover information like CPR for infants or baby first aid. Free first aid classes teach useful information, but they are not guaranteed to be compliant with the latest guidelines or provide participants with any credentials. Red Cross CPR and first aid classes or AHA-approved courses are an excellent way for individuals to learn how required to prevent injury and save lives while earning formal certification.

What is the recommended way to treat puncture wounds?

Puncture wounds can be serious if they become infected or are large. Rescuers should call 911 or drive the victim to the nearest emergency hospital unit for further treatment they are bleeding uncontrollably. To treat the wound, the rescuer should focus on stopping the bleeding by applying pressure to the area. Once the wound has stopped bleeding, rescuers should clean it with soap and water and apply an antibiotic ointment if available. Rescuers should apply fresh bandages to keep the wound free from infection. The victim can take a pain reliever like Tylenol or Advil and should get a Tetanus shot or Tetanus booster if they are due.

CPR and First Aid Certification and Renewals

How do I keep my CPR and first aid knowledge up to date?

Individuals must renew their CPR and first aid certification in compliance with AHA guidelines. Individuals must be sure to renew their certification before it becomes invalid, per the date indicated on their CPR card. A refresher CPR and first aid course and exam are required to renew certification. Health and medical professionals who are already certified may proceed directly to the exam.

What are the options for finding CPR renewals near me?

Individuals may renew their certification in person by attending a group CPR class or by taking an online course. Regardless of which type of class a person selects, it is important to renew certification before their current credentials expire and keep their knowledge up to date. Certification gives participants the confidence and skills needed to act in an emergency.

Obtain CPR and First Aid Certification Today

American Training Association for CPR online courses allow individuals to obtain certification in a way that’s easier than ever before. Online classes will teach participants the tools they need to save lives as well as giving them full CPR and first aid certification. Visit www.uscpronline.comto complete certified online training today.