CPR Certification in North Carolina

American Training Association for CPR provides online CPR and First Aid training and certification that is available to all North Carolina residents, including individuals in Charlotte and Raleigh.

What is CPR?

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a technique for saving lives when the heart unexpectedly stops beating, which is known as cardiac arrest. When the heart stops, it fails to pump blood to the body's major organs, including the brain. These organs need the oxygen contained in blood to survive, and without it, serious brain damage will occur within four minutes, and the victim will die within ten minutes. CPR manually pumps blood to deliver oxygen to the organs.

What is the procedure for performing basic CPR?

To perform CPR today, according to the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines, rescuers should follow these steps:

• Check the victim for responsiveness and determine if they have a pulse. If there is no pulse, rescuers should have another bystander call 911 while they begin CPR immediately.
• Kneel above the victim’s chest and place the hands on top of one another in the center of the victim’s chest.
• Perform rapid compressions at a rate of 2 per second, or approximately 120 per minutes. Pump the chest at least 2 inches downward with each compression.
• If the victim is not breathing naturally, the rescuer should open the airway by tilting the head back, then deliver one rescue breath and observe if the victim's chest rises and if the breath returns. If it does not, give a second rescue breath then return to performing compressions.
• Alternate compressions with rescue breathing at a rate of 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths, or 15:2 if there are two rescuers present.

When is an AED required?

CPR aids the body in pumping blood to the organs, but restarting the heart requires an automated external defibrillator (AED). These devices are available in public areas like airports, subway stations, libraries, schools, parks, shopping malls, and sports arenas. After delivering five cycles of chest compressions, a rescuer should go to retrieve an AED, or they may send another bystander to bring one to the scene. AEDs are voice-automated, guiding the rescuer through each step of use. After using the AED, rescuers should confirm that the victim's pulse returns before they stop delivering chest compressions. Continue rescue breathing if the victim is not breathing on their own.

What first aid basics are covered in free first aid classes?

Any first aid course should include basic techniques for treating accidental injuries like wounds, poisoning, poisoning, burns, choking, seizures, and more. First aid should prevent further harm and assist in treatment until further medical assistance in available. Individuals can learn first aid procedures in both online and in-person classes, and it is important to note that free CPR and first aid classes typically do not provide certification. Taking a Red Cross CPR and First Aid or AHA-approved course is the best way to earn nationally recognized certification.

What is the procedure for treating a chemical splash in the eye?

If an individual gets a chemical substance in their eyes, it is critical to receive immediate care. Remove contact lenses if present and have the victim run their eyes under room-temperature water for a minimum of twenty minutes to flush out the chemicals. Follow up by taking the individual to the nearest ER or dialing 911 if the victim is in extreme pain. Always remember to take the original chemical bottle to the ER when possible so caregivers can easily identify the substance.

Where can I find BLS, CPR, and First Aid classes near me?

Basic life support (BLS), CPR, and first aid classes are offered across North Carolina, and in numerous locations in the main centers like Greenville and Wilmington. In-person courses are offered at community centers, hospitals, swimming pools, and through community health organizations. Online classes are an excellent option for people who do not live in an area where courses are offered or for busy professionals who find it difficult to schedule in-person courses. Individuals should note that free CPR classes are informative but will not offer certification upon completion. To receive first aid and CPR certification, paid courses are available online for a small fee. Certification courses will cover core competencies as well as more specialized procedures like child or infant CPR.

CPR and First Aid Certification and Renewals

How can improve my CPR and first aid knowledge?

The best way to enhance CPR and first aid skills are to stay current with certification renewals. A CPR certification card will always list the expiration date, and individuals should ensure that they renew their training within that timeframe.

People who are interested in further education should consider a first responder course or specialized courses on baby first aid or mental heath first aid in addition to their CPR and first aid certification.

Where can I find CPR renewals near me?

In addition to in-person classes offered throughout the main cities in North Carolina, individuals can renew their CPR certification online. Online courses are an appealing option for professionals, people in remote locations where classes are not regularly held, or people with busy schedules who prefer to complete CPR and first aid training at their own pace.

Obtain CPR and First Aid Certification Right Now

American Training Association for CPR’s online courses make it easy for any individual to get their CPR and first aid certification beginning immediately. Learn critical life-saving techniques by signing up for one of our courses today. Visit US to start training now.