CPR certification in Vermont

American Training Association for CPR provide online CPR & First Aidtraining and certification that is accessible for all Vermont residents, including those in Burlington and Montpelier.

What is CPR?

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving technique used during a cardiac arrest, which happens if the heart unexpectedly stops beating due to cardiovascular complications. Without a heartbeat, the heart cannot pump oxygen-containing blood to the body's major organs like the brain. Without oxygen, severe brain damage will occur within four minutes, and victims will die within ten minutes. CPR manually pumps oxygenated blood to the organs when cardiac complications prevent the heart from doing so itself.

What are the latest CPR guidelines?

According to the American Heart Association’s (AHA) latest guidelines, there are two main types of CPR: compressions-only CPR, and CPR with rescue breathing. To begin either type, rescuers should check victims for responsiveness and a pulse. If neither are present, call 911 to report a cardiac arrest and begin CPR immediately. The procedure for CPR is:

• Compressions-only CPR

Kneeling above the victim, rescuers should deliver rapid compressions to the center of the victim’s chest, using both hands to pump at least 2 inches down into the chest at a rate of 100 - 120 beats per minute, and allowing the chest to recoil between compressions. Continue, without taking breaks, until emergency medical personnel arrive on the scene and can take over.

• CPR with Rescue Breathing

If the victim is not breathing normally, rescuers should begin by performing 30 chest compressions, then tilting the head back and lifting the chin upwards to clear their airway. Next, rescuers should seal their mouth over the victim's and deliver one rescue breath, watching for the victim's chest to rise. If it does not inflate, give a second rescue breath. After giving two rescue breaths, resume chest compressions at a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths. Continue delivering rescue breaths until the victim begins breathing normally or until emergency medical assistance can take over.

What is an AED and when is it required?

CPR works by manually pumping blood to the organs, but restarting the heart requires an automated external defibrillator (AED). These devices are available for public use in areas like airports, libraries, shopping malls, sports arenas, subway stations, schools, and parks. 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 devices that will guide 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, and they should continue rescue breathing if the victim is not breathing on their own.

Where are BLS and CPR classes located near me?

Basic life support (BLS) and CPR classes are available at hospitals, community health centers, fire halls, and other locations across Vermont, including municipalities such as Greensboro and Middlebury. Free CPR classes are also offered throughout the state and online. Online classes are a convenient alternative to attending group courses. For both in-person and online courses, participants should confirm that a program has a Red Cross or other reputable CPR or first aid certification component for the most thorough training.

What information will I learn in a first aid course?

First aid classes will teach participants the basics of treating accidental injuries and skills for preventing further harm. Main procedures that will be covered include how to treat bone fractures, wounds, burns, poisoning, choking, seizures, eye injuries, and head injuries. It is important to keep in mind that free first aid or CPR training classes tend to provide instruction only and will not provide certification upon completion. Individuals who wish to obtain official certification require an authorized course with a CPR and first aid exam.

When should burn victim seek treatment?

First degree burns are painful but are treatable at home by applying a cold compress, covering the area with ointment, and taking a pain reliever medication like Tylenol or Advil. Second-degree burns cause severe pain, blistering, and swelling as they penetrate the first layer of skin and reach the second layer. Individuals can also treat second-degree burns can at home, unless they are larger than three inches in diameter, in which case victims should seek further medical attention.

Where are BLS, first aid, and CPR classes available near me?

Basic life support (BLS), first aid, and CPR certification courses are offered at many locations throughout the state of Colorado, with many options in the main centers like Fort Collins, Aurora, and Pueblo. Fire halls, community centers, and local health organizations are some of the locations that offer CPR certification classes and Red Cross first aid techniques. Some of these first aid courses are free, and others provide more in-depth training and formal certification. Online courses are an excellent option for busy participants or those who live in remote locations. Individuals should note that free CPR and first aid classes may provide participants with accurate information but may lack the actual certification that will come from completing a reputable Red Cross or other authorized course.

CPR and First Aid Certification and Renewals

How do I stay current with my CPR and first aid knowledge?

It is important for individuals to renew CPR and first aid knowledge regularly so that they can remain confident in their abilities and can stay current on the latest guidelines. Many students become even more passionate about life-saving procedures after completing first aid and CPR courses and may wish to upgrade their training to include a first responder course, or classes that teach child CPR or CPR for infants. Individuals should prioritize renewing their credentials within the timeframe indicated on their CPR card.

Where can I find CPR renewals near me?

Recertification is obtained by completing an in-person group CPR and first aid class in locations throughout Vermont or through an online course. Online courses are an ideal option for busy professionals who wish to renew their certification on their own schedule, or for those who prefer to learn at a self-guided pace.

Earn CPR and First Aid Certification Today

Don’t put CPR and first aid training off any longer – sign up to complete an American Training Association for CPR online class today to become equipped to take action and save lives in an emergency. Visit www.uscpronline.com to begin one of our comprehensive online certification classes.