CPR certification in Texas

American Training Association for CPR provides online CPR and First Aida> training and certification that is accessible to all Texas residents, including those in Dallas and Houston.

What is CPR?

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a technique designed to save lives in the event of a cardiac arrest, which occurs when the heart unexpectedly stops beating. When the heart stops beating, it does not pump oxygen to the body’s major organs, which is required to survive. Without oxygen, brain damage occurs within four minutes and death can occur within ten minutes. CPR manually pumps oxygenated blood to the organs and as a result, significantly increases a cardiac arrest victim's chance of survival.

What are the basic CPR guidelines?

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the chain of survival guidelines for cardiac arrest is:

1. Recognizing cardiac arrest and calling 911
2. Immediately performing CPR focusing on chest compressions
3. Rapid defibrillation
4. Care by emergency medical personnel
5. In-hospital life support and care

Bystanders are involved in the first three steps and should begin by calling 911 or asking another bystander to call. Next, rescuers should for responsiveness by tapping the victim and asking, "Are you okay?" At this time, rescuers should also check for a pulse. If the victim does not respond and there is no pulse, begin CPR. Basic CPR, or compression-only CPR, involves pumping the center of the victim's chest with both hands, at least 2 inches down and at a rate of 120 compressions per minute. Continue CPR until an emergency medical team arrives.

When is rescue breathing used in CPR?

If a rescuer has CPR certification, and the victim is not breathing, the AHA recommends combining chest compressions with rescue breathing. After performing 30 chest compressions, the rescuer will clear the victim’s airway by tilting the head back and the chin upwards. Next, they will place their mouth over the victim’s mouth so it makes a seal and deliver one rescue breath, checking to see if the victim’s chest rises. If the chest rises, the rescuer can resume chest compressions. If the chest does not rise, they can deliver another rescue breath and then return to compressions, repeating the sequence of 2 rescue breaths for every 30 compressions.

If two rescuers are present, one will perform rescue breathing, and the other will perform chest compressions, and they should use a ratio of 15:2 compressions to breaths. Rescuers should switch positions every couple of minutes to avoid fatigue.

What are some first aid basics?

First aid procedures are intended to preserve life and treat accidental injuries until a person can seek further medical care. Some of the most common injuries that a first aid course will cover are head injuries, wounds, bone fractures, poisoning, choking, and burns. Both in-person and online classes will cover these basics. Free first aid classes will provide useful information but only paid versions will give certification to participants who complete the course.

What is the procedure for treating serious burns?

Third-degree burns are the most serious types of burns, and they require immediate medical attention. Third degree burns char the skin and penetrate deeper than the third layer of the skin. Often, the victim will not be in pain because the nerve endings have been charred. The first step in treating third-degree burns is to call 911 or rush the victim to the nearest emergency hospital unit. While waiting for emergency medical providers to arrive, rescuers should perform CPR if needed and raise the burn above the victim's heart if possible, to increase blood pressure. Rescuers can cover the burns in a cold, damp cloth or piece of fabric. Rescuers should not apply ice to the burns or attempt to remove the victim's clothing.

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

Basic life support (BLS), CPR, and first aid classes are offered across Texas, and in numerous locations in the main centers like San Antonio and Austin. 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 techniques 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 a Red Cross program in addition to their CPR and first aid certification. Interested individuals may also wish to see out specialized courses on baby first aid or mental health first aid.

Where can I find CPR renewals near me?

In addition to public classes offered throughout major cities in Texas, individuals can renew their CPR certification online. Online courses are an attractive option for professionals or people with busy schedules who prefer to complete CPR and first aid training at their own pace.

Earn your CPR/First Aid Certification Today

Don't delay in registering for CPR and first aid classes with American Training Association for CPR. Our courses put individuals closer to saving lives and treating injuries with skill and confidence in any emergency. Visit http://www.uscpronline.com/ to begin a certification class today.