If you are thinking of enrolling for Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), you are making the right choice. Not only will you be making a great contribution to society by saving lives, it will also helps you learn important individual health tips. Now, consider that the American Heart Association (AHA) says over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside a hospital.
According to research, if a bystander doesn’t immediately perform CPR to such a victim, their chances of survival decrease by 7%. Over 200,000 people die from cardiac arrests every year according to YMCA, again highlighting the importance of more people getting certified to perform CPR. In fact, the worrying fact according to AHA is that less than a third of all out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims receive CPR from bystanders.
Leveraging Online CPR Certification
Well, there is no gainsaying the importance of getting certified for CPR immediately. If you are certified and 2 years have lapsed, AHA guidelines indicate you should get recertified. But the question is, where do you start? Of course, online CPR certification is the perfect choice because you get to learn at your convenience. What’s more, you register and receive learning materials which you can go through at your own time. When ready for the test, you just go ahead and take it before you receive your certificate.
Choosing the Right CPR Certification
There are many programs out there but before you enroll with any, consider these facts:
- Your Training Needs
People get CPR certification for different reasons. For example, some professionals such as teachers, nurses, physical therapists, firefighters and medical assistants require these skills due to their work. Before enrolling, evaluate the courses being offered on a particular program. The major courses are infant, child and adult CPR depending on your area of focus.
- Seek Referrals
Ask around in the office if there is anyone who has taken online CPR lessons. If their certificate is accepted nationwide and the lessons are flexible, you can add the program to your shortlist. In addition, read reviews and testimonials by other trainees on the viability of the particular program.
- Compliance and Accreditation
Your certificate is only as good as the program you earn it from. Make sure you enquire whether the program conforms to AHA guidelines for CPR and ECC (emergency cardiovascular care). A reliable program must also comply with International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) guidelines. A good online CPR certification course should also be accredited by other parties such as the Continuing Education Coordinating Board for Emergency Medical Services (CECBEMS).
- Flexibility
One of the major reasons you are choosing an online CPR course is of course due to its flexibility. Before you register, check the schedule of the lessons and the time required to learn and take your test. Always go for a program that dovetails with your busy schedule.
- Information
An Online CPR Certification platform should have detailed descriptions of the course and all other pertinent information. Such a program must also have a customer service team to answer all your queries.
If you are looking for an online CPR certification program, take your time to ensure you get a valid certificate. Your skills will go a long way in making society a better place.
