What is CPR and why is it important? Who should learn CPR? What are the benefits to learning CPR? How often should I recertify my CPR certificate? These are all important questions we hope to address on this page regarding your first aid and CPR training in Alberta. As certified provincially, federally and CSA approved instructors we hope to solve these questions for you and help encourage you to take Occupational Health and Safety Approved first aid and CPR certification courses in Alberta.
What is CPR and Why Is it Important?
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving technique that is used to continue circulating oxygenated blood throughout the body and mimic the functions of the heart. CPR also includes artificial respiration which aids in ventilating the lungs with oxygenated blood and then circulating that oxygenated blood to the organs of the body via chest compressions. This process prevents the death of the organs and brain by circulating oxygenated blood throughout the body until more advanced care or an AED comes onto the scene to provide more advanced help. CPR is important, because without it, after several minutes of the body not having oxygen circulating to it’s major organs they begin to die and have irreparable damage.
What Are the Benefits to Learning CPR?
The following are some of the major benefits to learning CPR:
- You will possess the abilities to potentially save someone life
- You will have increased confidence in your skills
- You will be more able to manage yourself in emergency situations
- You will learn many lifesaving skills and become part of the chain of survival
How Often Should I Recertify My Certificate?
Recertifying your certificate is dependant on a number of factors. However, when you register with a OH&S approved provider you will likely get a certificate that is valid for 3 years. So at the very least, you should recertify your award every three years. However, some workplaces and schools require recertification at an earlier rate. You can also recertify if you feel like you need to refresh your knowledge.
Did You Know?
Gastroenteritis with children: when to get help
Get a head start on your first aid and CPR training by learning about Gastroenteritis. If you child starts to experience these worsening symptoms, bring him or her to the nearest emergency room.
- Child loses consciousness or is constantly drowsy
- Bloody vomit
- Blood diarrhea
- Severe dehydration (dry mouth, skin, sunken eyes, marked thirst)
- Sunken fontanel (space at the top of the head)
- Dry diapers for more than three hours
- Fever for more than three days (age 2 and older) or one day (younger than age 2)