CPR is a life-saving technique used to revive anyone who has suffered a cardiac arrest, or sudden loss of heart functionality. CPR restores blood circulation and oxygenation of vital organs, such as the brain.
CPR training is available in many forms.
- Basic Life Support CPR (BLS): This CPR course is aimed at healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses, to teach them the essential skills they need in hospitals and clinics.
- Heartsaver CPR – This CPR course is aimed at non-medical professionals as well as the general public. It includes instruction on adult, child, and infant CPR as well as how to use automated external defibrillators. Heartsaver may be required for certain occupations, such as daycare or lifeguards.
- Children’s CPR: This course focuses on What IS CPR? which is specifically targeted at infants and young children. It also covers common pediatric emergencies such as choking or drowning. Participants will learn essential skills to perform CPR under these circumstances.
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support: ACLS is a training program for healthcare professionals that may be required to administer CPR or other life-saving interventions in emergency situations. This course teaches more advanced techniques, such as airway management and medication administration.
- First Aid CPR: This course combines first aid skills with CPR, covering a variety of emergency situations such as injury management and choking response.
CPR programs can vary depending on the organization or provider.