Different Types of CPR classes
Thinking of attending a CPR class but not sure which one? It is normal to get confused as the moment you search for a CPR course you are confronted with choices like CPR, BLS, AED, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, etc. The best way to decide is to know more about these lifesaving courses.
CPR and AED: They are the basic CPR class available. AED (Automated External Defibrillator) and CPR class cover the basics and can be administered on adults as well as infants. These classes will cover conscious and unconscious chocking, AED, and CPR for adults, children and infants. This type of class can be taken by anyone but parents, babysitter, trainers and security guards must take these classes as their job may require them to handle unexpected situations. While taking these CPR classes make sure that your CPR certification has two year validity and preferably learn from the American Heart Association (AHA) or the American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI).
Basic Life Support or BLS: This CPR class is for healthcare providers. This course is provided by American Heart Association and covers CPR and AED course along with training for two people CPR and AED and the bag-valve-mask. People in profession such as doctors, nurses, medical personnel, paramedics are required to undergo this course. If you are planning to work in a hospital then you can consider taking this course. Make sure that you obtain a certificate from the American Heart Association (AHA) as certain hospitals only accept certificates issued by the AHA.
CPR for the Professional Rescuer: The aim of this course is to teach the skills and knowledge required to handle breathing and cardiac emergencies to people whose duty is to respond in case of emergencies. This CPR class is similar to BLR and is taught by the American Red Cross. The topics include:
- Primary Assessment of the affected person
- Use of CPR and BVMs and other ventilation techniques
- Chocking, both conscious and unconscious
- Administering CPR (one- and two-rescuer)
- AED
- Use of epinephrine injectors and asthma inhalers( optional)
The approximate duration of this CPR class is around six hours. After completion of the training you get a certificate with two years validity. But remember the CPR for the Professional Rescuer is not as widely accepted as the BLS certificate so if you are thinking of attending classes make sure that it is from the American Red Cross.
I guess this will clear some of the confusion regarding what kind of CPR class you want to attend.
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