Were you trained in CPR years ago but have let your certification lapse? Do you assume that you don’t need to bother with updating your CPR training even though it has been years since you took a class? Consider the following 5 reasons you should take a current CPR class.
1. CPR has changed! For decades students were taught to give breaths first and then do chest compressions. In 2010 the process was changed to reflect recent research which showed that pressing on the chest first will get the maximum amount of oxygen to the brain and heart. The body has enough oxygen from the last breath it took before the cardiac event. Making the heart beat is more important than giving a breath. If you have not taken CPR in a few years you may not be aware of the current process.
2. Practice improves information retention. If it has been years since you last took CPR, it has likely been years since you last practiced CPR. Practicing will help you remember how hard the chest compressions need to be and what it feels like to complete multiple cycles of CPR. In addition the instructor can observe your practice and help you refine your skills if needed.
3. New technology to explore. Many CPR classes include lessons on how to use an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). An AED is a portable electronic device that applies electrical therapy to the chest of the patient allowing the heart to return to a normal rhythm. Use of an AED is known to save lives and often these devices can be found in public places such as schools, malls and libraries. Although the devices provide directions it is best for the person using it to have already been exposed to an AED and practiced the process. A CPR class offers that opportunity.
Don’t rely on lapsed CPR skills when it comes to saving a life. Contact us to find out how to schedule a class so you can learn up to date CPR information.
