CPR certification in Idaho

American Training Association for CPR provides online CPR & First Aidtraining and certification that is accessible for all Idaho residents, including those in Boise and Idaho Falls.

What is CPR?

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving technique used during a cardiac arrest, which happens if the heart unexpectedly stops beating due to cardiovascular complications. Without a heartbeat, the heart cannot pump oxygen-containing blood to the body's major organs like the brain. Without oxygen, severe brain damage occurs within four minutes and victims will die within ten minutes. CPR manually pumps oxygenated blood to the organs when cardiac arrest prevents the heart from doing so itself.

What is the proper way to perform CPR?

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the chain of survival guidelines for cardiac arrest CPR is:

1. Recognizing cardiac arrest and calling 911
2. Immediately performing CPR focusing on chest compressions
3. Rapid defibrillation.
4. Care by emergency medical personnel.
5. In-hospital life support and care.

After rescuers call 911, they should check for responsiveness by tapping or shaking the victim's shoulder and asking, "Are you okay?" At this time, rescuers should also check for a pulse. If the victim does not respond and there is no pulse, begin CPR. Basic CPR, also known as compressions-only CPR, involves pumping the center of the victim's chest with both hands, at least 2 inches in depth and at a rate of 120 compressions per minute. Rescuers should continue to perform CPR until an emergency medical team arrives and can take over.

Is it possible to perform CPR with just one rescuer?

Ideally, CPR is carried out with two rescuers so that one person can call 911 while the other begins CPR. When two or more rescuers are present, they can alternate positions between rescue breathing and performing compressions to prevent fatigue. Having two rescuers also allows chest compressions and rescue breathing to happen simultaneously, at a rate of 15:2 chest compressions to rescue breaths.

When an individual is the lone rescuer, they should call 911 using the speakerphone function while they begin chest compressions, which allows them to communicate with a 911 operator without interrupting their ability to deliver compressions. When alone, rescuers will follow a ratio of 30 chest compressions to 2 rescue breaths. Do not stop compressions or take a break until an emergency medical responder can take over.

What are the options for BLS and CPR classes near me?

Basic life support (BLS), CPR, and first aid classes are offered across Idaho, in locations throughout the main centers like Nampa and Pocatello. Group training courses are available at community centers, hospitals, swimming pools, and through local health organizations. Online classes are an excellent option for people who do not live in an area where courses are offered or for busy professionals who prefer to complete their training on their own schedule. It is important to note that free CPR classes are informative but will not offer certification upon completion. Formal certification courses will cover specialized procedures like child or infant CPR along with core skills.

What are the first aid basics that everyone should learn?

Everyone should know how to handle emergencies and accidental injuries such as choking, poisoning, head injuries, wounds, bone fractures, and burns. First aid courses teach first responders to assess injuries and provide treatment until the victim can seek professional medical care. Individuals can learn these skills by taking first aid classes either in-person or online. It is important to be aware that free first aid classes are informative, but they don’t provide nationally-recognized certification or the in-depth training that is required in many emergencies.

What is the recommended treatment for spinal injuries?

Signs of a spinal injury include head injury, lack of control or numbness in the arms and legs, back pain, and loss of bowel or bladder control. If a rescuer suspects a spinal injury, they must call 911 immediately and should not attempt to move the victim.

If the victim is unresponsive, rescuers should perform CPR. If two rescuers are present, they can try to turn the victim onto their side, but only if they are vomiting or bleeding from the nose or mouth. It is important for rescuers to reassure the victim to help them remain as still as possible while waiting for emergency medical care to arrive.

CPR and First Aid Certification and Renewals

What specialized CPR and First Aid topics can I become certified in?

Individuals and professionals who are interested in broadening their first aid and CPR knowledge may consider a Red Cross baby first aid class, a first responder course, or a CPR course specifically for the professional rescuer class in addition to learning BLS skills and earning basic certification.

Where can I find CPR renewals near me?

Individuals can renew their CPR and first aid credentials by taking a refresher class and successfully passing another certification exam. Recertification programs can be completed in-person at locations throughout Kansas or by taking a convenient online course for stress-free learning that participants can finish on their own schedule.

Obtain CPR and First Aid Certification Today

Don’t postpone earning CPR certification off any longer. Register for American Training Association for CPR’s online courses that allow participants to learn the skills they need to save lives and provide emergency care when needed. Visit www.uscpronline.comto begin an online certification course today.