First aid training and CPR certification can help you respond to a variety of emergencies and situations that require immediate medical attention. The purpose of these training courses is ultimately to help save lives and reduce the impact of injuries and accidents. There are several benefits of being first aid and CPR certified that you may want to be aware of, even if you are not actively seeking certification. 

CPR certification and first aid training courses are available both online and in-person and even paediatric first aid is available. and, in many cases, are combined into a single learning experience. If you are seeking recertification for CPR or AED use, you may also be able to add first aid training to your skill set through these courses. And while everyone hopes never to be involved in a situation where you are required to use CPR, your knowledge and practical understanding of these techniques may be necessary for saving lives. 

This article will cover a few of the advantages of first aid and CPR certification combo courses. First, let’s look at some of the topics a first aid course covers and some of the techniques you might see when learning CPR. 

What Can I Learn from a First Aid Training Course?

A first aid training course will improve your response to a variety of situations requiring medical attention. While first aid is not a complete medical process or technique, it can help someone who needs care before trained medical professionals arriving on the scene. A high-quality first aid training course will cover various topics that will allow you to take action should someone experience an accident or sustain an injury.  

Many first aid training courses begin with a guide to understanding the situations that require immediate action. Proper assessment of the scene can give responders a good idea of taking immediate action and potentially saving lives. Next, a first aid training course should prioritize learning to treat shock, responding to a choking incident, and methods of offering support in the event of a fracture or sprain. There are often also a few helpful tips throughout the course for treating or caring for less life-threatening situations, such as a minor cut or scrape, insect stings or bites, and basic burn treatment. In addition, a high-quality first aid training course is likely to cover stocking and supplying a first aid kit. 

What Topics Does a CPR Certification Course Cover?

In a similar fashion to a first aid training course, CPR certification programs typically begin by discussing how to assess or evaluate a scene where immediate action may be necessary. Next, the course will discuss the basics of adult CPR, which starts with learning the C-A-B method. CAB is an acronym commonly used to help trainees remember the three basic steps for CPR: chest compressions, airway, and breathing. 

Learning the correct method for chest compressions and rescue breaths ensures the relative effectiveness of CPR but does not necessarily guarantee success. For this reason, many CPR training courses also include steps for using an AED (automated external defibrillator) when responding to cardiac arrest or similar life-threatening situations. Next, your CPR training course should cover how to offer CPR to an infant or child. The process for supplying compressions and rescue breaths for resuscitation varies significantly from how you should respond if an adult is experiencing cardiac arrest. 

Advantages of a First Aid and CPR Combo Course

With the combined knowledge of first aid training and CPR certification, your response will improve for various medical situations. However, there are many situations where your knowledge can offer only limited or short-term support. If you believe the situation is an emergency, call 911 as soon as possible. 

Save Lives 

The most immediate benefit of first aid training and CPR certification is your ability to save lives in the event of an emergency. If someone is experiencing a heart attack or cardiac arrest, you will have the confidence to step in and take action. Following the CAB method, using an AED, or administering treatment for shock all have the potential to increase the victim’s chances of survival, depending on the situation. 

Employability

CPR and first aid certification is a valuable life skill that may come in handy in unexpected situations. Many employers understand the importance of this skill and value your ability to take action and provide a safe workspace. Many positions list CPR and AED certifications as part of the requirements for employment. If you currently hold a similar position, it may also be necessary to seek recertification to update or retrain these vital skills. 

Safer Home and Community

Learning the basics of first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation supports the safety of your home and your community. According to the American Heart Association, more than 350,000 cardiac arrest cases occur outside of the hospital each year, most commonly in residential spaces and offices. In many of these situations, the knowledge of the average bystander is limited, and a slow response lowers the chance of survival. In many ways, receiving your CPR and first aid certification is simply good citizenship. Remember that the techniques and methods primarily benefit others, rather than yourself. 

Foundational Knowledge for Training Others

If you are interested in using your CPR and first aid knowledge on a more consistent basis, you may want to consider volunteering your time to help train others and improve their emergency response. CPR instructors begin their journey towards employment or volunteering with a basic first aid and CPR training course, then enter into higher levels of training and certification. The American Heart Association has a variety of resources available for those interested in becoming a CPR instructor. 

Conclusion– The Benefits of First Aid and CPR Certification Courses

A combined study of first aid and CPR techniques improves your emergency preparedness and response and ensures you’ll always have a smart way to take action. There are many courses available in-person or online that help you get started. With first aid and CPR certification, you’ll have the skill set necessary for saving lives and making your home and community a safer environment.