CPR certification in Ohio

American Training Association for CPR provides online CPR and First Aid training that is accessible to all Ohio residents, including those in Cleveland and Columbus.

What is CPR?

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a procedure designed to save lives in the event of a cardiac arrest, which occurs when the heart unexpectedly stops beating. The body’s major organs, like the brain and the liver, require oxygen in the blood to survive. Without a heartbeat to pump the blood to these organs, an individual can suffer serious brain damage within four minutes and can die within ten minutes. CPR manually pumps oxygenated blood to the organs and increases a victim’s chance of surviving a cardiac arrest.

What are the official guidelines for CPR?

Rescuers should perform CPR according to the latest American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines, which lists the following steps:

1. Check the victim for responsiveness by asking, “Are you okay?” and shaking their shoulder. If they do not respond, and they do not have a pulse, have another bystander call 911 and begin performing CPR immediately. Remember that fast action is critical to a victim's survival so rescuers should not delay beginning CPR.
2. Perform rapid chest compressions at a rate of 2 per second, or 120 per minute, pressing down a minimum of 2 inches on the victim’s chest.
3. Continue compressions until emergency medical assistance arrives.
4. If a victim is not breathing, rescuers should perform rescue breathing. Placing your mouth over the victim's, deliver one rescue breath and observe if their chest rises. If it does not, give the second breath before resuming chest compressions.

How do I perform CPR if I am alone?

CPR is best carried out with two rescuers so that one person can call 911 while the other begins CPR. Two rescuers also allow chest compressions and rescue breathing to happen simultaneously, at a rate of 15 chest compressions to 2 rescue breaths. When two rescuers are present, they can switch positions between rescue breathing and performing compressions to prevent fatigue.

When an individual is a lone rescuer, they should call 911 using the speakerphone function while they begin chest compressions. When alone, rescuers will follow a ratio of 30 chest compressions to 2 rescue breaths.

What first aid basics will I learn in a free first aid class?

Any first aid course will cover techniques for treating accidental injuries including choking, poisoning, burns, cuts, fractures and sprains, head injuries, and seizures. Some classes may also cover relevant topics such as child and infant CPR and mental health first aid. It is important to note that free courses are meant to teach CPR and first aid procedures only, and are not suitable for individuals who wish to earn certification. Red Cross CPR and first aid classes or equivalent courses are required for recognized certification.

What is the recommended treatment for concussions?

Concussions are a serious type of head injury that require medical attention. If the victim displays any of the following symptoms, rescuers should call 911: uneven pupils, seizures, slurred speech, drowsiness, neck pain, or weakness on one side of the body. Take the victim to the nearest emergency room for further evaluation.

Where can I find BLS, CPR, and first aid classes near me?

Individuals can take courses in basic life support (BLS), CPR, and first aid in locations throughout Ohio, such as hospitals or community centers in cities such as Cincinnati and Youngstown. CPR and first aid certification courses are also available online and are an excellent alternative for people who do not live in an area where courses are offered, or for busy individuals who prefer to complete their certification at their own pace.

CPR and First Aid Certification and Renewals

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

CPR renewals help ensure that an individual’s knowledge is current with new guidelines. While renewing basic CPR and first aid certification professionals like first responders or healthcare providers have the option of bypassing the course and completing the testing portion only, allowing them to renew their certification while saving time.

Where are CPR and first aid renewals available near me?

CPR and first aid certification can be renewed by taking a refresher course and successfully completing the test. Courses can be completed in-person, in cities across Ohio, or individuals may opt for the convenience of an online course when they wish to renew their certification.

Obtain CPR and First Aid Certification Today

CPR and first aid certification have never been more accessible than with American Training Association for CPR. Take one of our convenient and reputable courses to earn your certification and learn the skills you need to save lives. Visit US to begin your CPR and first aid certification today.