What To Know About CPR Certification Courses

By Tammie Caldwell


There are a lot of times in which people unexpectedly become heroes. They save a person, sometimes a stranger and sometimes a loved one or friend, from dying. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, which is also referred to as CPR, is a type of emergency practice that is done in an effort to preserve brain function until other measures can be done to restore blood circulation and breathing in people who are suffering from cardiac arrest. It is also performed on people who have abnormal or no breathing. CPR certification courses are widely available to those interested in learning.

CPR has been used since the 1700s. Many people are aware of how it is to be performed. When given correctly and promptly, this practice can keep people alive. In fact, it has saved many lives over the decades. Numerous courses, both online and in classroom, are available for those who want to be educated and certified.

The procedure is not just for heart-attack patients. It might also be used for those who have been electrically shocked, overdosed on drugs, choked, suffered severe allergic reactions, drowned, or suffocated. The brain is a critical organ of the body and requires oxygen to survive. This procedures seeks to circulate blood and oxygen around the body even when the lungs or heart are not. No oxygen can lead to brain damage or even death. This is a temporary care solution that is to be used until medical professionals can provide proper care.

One of the initial steps that should be done with CPR is notifying medical professionals. People should dial the emergency phone number, such as 911. This is so that professionals can be dispatched to the area and provide prompt treatment to the victim.

The specifics of this procedure will be discussed in classes. There are also many online resources with valuable information. A combo of techniques, such as chest compressions are done. The compressions are meant to simulate the beating of the heart and to help circulate blood and oxygen to the brain, an important organ.

ABC is a mnemonic used to help people remember what to do. A is for airway, as this should be opened up by tilting the head back. B reminds people to address the breathing. They should put their ear to the mouth of the person and see if their chest moves to indicate normal breathing. Finally, there is C for compressions. If the person is not breathing or otherwise responding, be sure to notify medical professionals and then begin giving compressions.

Compressions are to be done with interlocked hands placed on the chest of the person. After a certain number of compressions, rescue breaths may be given. Always tilt the head back before giving this air. Do not stop CPR until medical help has arrived, a defibrillator is used, the person comes back to life, you are too tired to continue, or the situation becomes dangerous.

Formal training is not necessary to perform this. However, it can make people feel more comfortable and prepared in these situations. People who receive certification are encouraged to renew and refresh their memory by being re-certified every few years. Search around to see what classes are available in an area and what they entail. This is a life-saving procedure that people should know how to administer.




About the Author: