CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a technique used to keep a cardiac arrest victim's heart pumping until professional help arrives. MayoClinic.com notes that CPR ideally consists of both chest compressions and a technique called rescue breathing. You'll find that a nationally administered CPR class will address the latest advances in CPR procedures, in addition to providing valuable hands-on practice with a life-size mannequin.
Adult CPR Course
The Red Cross Adult CPR course will help you assess an unconscious adult, or perhaps one who is choking. You'll be trained to identify potential signs of a heart attack, and how to perform CPR on that victim until emergency medical assistance arrives. You will learn how to take personal precautions to protect yourself while you're conducting CPR on the victim.
Finally, you'll be educated in the use of an automated external defibrillator, or AED. This easily-operated portable device helps to temporarily re-establish irregular or absent cardiac rhythm until rescuers arrive.
Child and Infant CPR Course
Red Cross Child and Infant CPR courses are designed for child caregivers and staff members of child-oriented facilities such as camps. The Child CPR course, designed for children between ages 1 to 12, covers breathing and cardiac emergencies. Separate Infant CPR courses apply to babies up to 1 year of age. The Infant CPR courses are appropriate for day care staffers and other caregivers.
Benefits
A Red Cross CPR course provides you with valuable skills that might help to save a cardiac arrest victim's life. Red Cross CPR classes also offer a consistent course curriculum nationwide. All courses are conducted by certified CPR instructors trained not only in correct procedures, but also in methods to deliver them effectively. Finally, Red Cross CPR courses have been developed in conjunction with recognized medical experts using the latest CPR-related research.
Course Schedules
You'll find that Red Cross CPR courses can be scheduled in many U.S. towns and cities. Your local Red Cross chapter can schedule a CPR course at their facility, or can conduct one at your workplace or community group location. Depending on instructor availability, courses can be scheduled during day or evening hours.
Considerations
Remember that a Red Cross CPR course will communicate the information, and provide you with hands-on mannequin practice, to perform CPR in real-life situations. You may be faced with a medical emergency in which you'll need to put those principles to use. Before that occurs, mentally rehearse the procedures and establish a comfort level with the process.
