When registering for a 1st aid course candidates have the option of selecting from a variety of CPR levels. This CPR level can also be taken as stand-alone CPR courses. All of the major Canadian 1st aid and CPR providers offer the same level of CPR training and offer certification that is of equal value. This page is dedicated to the levels of CPR training that candidates can obtain either partnered through a 1st aid course or in a stand-alone CPR course.
Different CPR Levels of training
The following is a list and short description of the different CPR levels available to candidates:
CPR “A”
CPR “A” (also known as basic life support CPR) – This CPR level is the most basic CPR training available. It focuses on CPR techniques for adult and child victims. It takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to complete this course. This CPR level typically comes standard with emergency 1st aid.
CPR “B”
CPR “B” – This CPR level is almost obsolete. Prior to recent changes CPR “A” focused exclusively on CPR techniques for adults and CPR “B” focused on adults and children. However, the recent CPR changes made CPR techniques for adults and children almost identical which eliminated the need for CPR “B”.
CPR “C”
CPR “C” – This CPR level is the most popular and one of the most comprehensive levels of CPR training. It includes all of the content from CPR “A” and “B” and includes training in CPR techniques for infant victims. This CPR level typically comes standard with standard 1st aid.
CPR “HCP”
CPR “C” for healthcare providers (CPR “HCP”) – This course is designed specifically for people that are working or want to work in the healthcare industry. It includes all of the content from CPR “A”, “B”, and “C” and includes training in the use of more advanced equipment and trained backup. This CPR level can be partnered with a standard first aid course.
CPR Levels of Re-Certification Training:
Only candidates with CPR level “C” and CPR level “C” for health care providers (CPR HCP) can take stand-alone re-certification courses. Candidates with CPR level “A” must re-take the course to renew their certification. Candidates enrolled in emergency first aid and standard first aid will receive CPR re-certification with the course.
AED Training:
All CPR courses and re-certifications include training and certification in the use of AEDs.