CPR, which stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is an emergency procedure that helps to pump blood to the brain until further help can be received. CPR usually consists of rescue breaths (also known as mouth-to-mouth) and chest compressions. It is performed on someone who is not breathing on their own, usually due to cardiac arrest, near-drowning, or another emergency situation.
CPR is usually learned through a CPR or first aid course. Although it may vary slightly from state to state, it is based on the Australian Resuscitation Council guidelines. Obtaining a certification in CPR can be done on its own or as part of a First Aid training course. Fortunately, this course can be completed in as little as 4.25 hours!
Why should you obtain a CPR certification?
There are various reasons one may seek to become qualified in giving CPR. Certain jobs may recommend or require CPR certification, especially if you work with children and/or vulnerable people.
You may want to become qualified for peace of mind. The chances of survival are doubled if CPR is given within the first two minutes of cardiac arrest or another medical emergency. CPR saves lives, and the next life you save might be the life of a loved one- your child, parent, or friend.
Death isn’t the only outcome when someone stops breathing or their heart stops. Blood and oxygen keep your vital organs alive. When blood and oxygen stop circulating, your brain is deprived of precious oxygen, which can cause brain damage or brain death.
Anyone can learn CPR, and nobody regrets learning it. Even if you never have to use it, you’ll feel confident when you’re equipped with knowledge that may save a life. In addition to knowing how to resuscitate someone, a CPR course will teach you to act quickly in an emergency instead of being consumed by panic. It will also teach you to identify the early signs and act before things get out of hand.
Despite this knowledge being so useful and easily obtainable, fewer than 5% of Australians are trained in first aid and CPR. Many people dream of growing up to be heroes who valiantly swoop in to save civilians- well, you can become a potential hero in just a few hours!
How long does CPR certification last?
CPR is a skill that needs to be renewed every 12 months. While First Aid certificates don’t technically expire, it does need to be renewed every 3 years. The best way to do this is by doing a First Aid Refresher Course.
Your employer may request that you refresh your knowledge more often than every 3 years, but don’t worry- you can never be overqualified! A first aid course can be repeated as many times as you want. A refresher course will replenish your existing knowledge while teaching you anything new, so you can feel confident that you’re able to give the best First Aid.
