How to Train Online for CPR and First Aid
Scenario: You are standing in line waiting to order food when your 90-year-old grandmother falls on the floor, convulsing and foaming at the mouth; what do you do? Another scenario: You are in the living room talking to some friends when the little boy from next door falls out of tree and lands on his back; what do you do? These are two reasons to be trained in CPR and First Aid, even if the classes are online. No excuses.
- Call your local American Red Cross, American Heart Association or community college and inquire about online CPR classes and First Aid training. If they ask you to try and come and take the class in person, tell them that you are unable to come in person and explain why (e.g., small kids, no transportation, illness, etc.).
- Do an online search yourself. Scrutinize every class, make sure that they are accredited and look at the credentials of the instructors. If there are any numbers, call them and ask as many questions as you can about the courses. Ask about times, dates and how homework will be handled -- if there will even be any homework.
- Browse through courses. See what books will be needed and what the schedule for assignments is. Don't forget to ask about downloading materials needed for the class. Ask if there are any free materials, or if will you have to buy everything for yourself. Is there financial assistance for low-income families?
- Recruit family members or friends for practice. Since you will not be in class, in person, grab a friend and practice bandaging arms, putting on splints and taking blood pressure. You can save the CPR, mouth-to-mouth resuscitation for your husband or wife.
Always check to see if course is still available before signing the dotted line. Ask how long will it take to get cards in the mail. Get a calendar and note dates for card renewal and recertification.