Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently asked questions about CPR and First Aid training.

1. What is the minimum age to learn CPR?
• There is no minimum age requirement for learning CPR. The ability to perform CPR is based more on body strength than age. Studies have shown that children as young as nine years old can learn and retain CPR skills. 

2. Which course is best for me if I need a general CPR course to prepare me to save the life of a loved one?
• An Adult CPR/First Aid/AED or the Adult, Child CPR/First Aid/AED or the Adult & Pediatric CPR/First Aid/AED course provides basic CPR training in a dynamic group environment using the research-proven practice-while-watching method.

3. I am not a healthcare professional and need a CPR and AED course for work purposes. Which course should I take?

·        The Adult CPR/First Aid/AED course is best for you. The ARC offers this course as a blended learning course with an online and hands-on skills sessions.

4.        Why does the choice of certification matter?

Having the right skills can make a significant impact in emergency situations! Remember that investing in proper CPR training is essential, as it equips individuals with life-saving skills. Consider your needs, the quality of training, and the reputation of the certifying organization when choosing a course.

5.        Are all CPR certificates offered on-line the same?

Not all CPR certifications and educational courses are inherently the same. The proper certification could easily mean the difference between life and death! Here are some key points to consider:

·        American Red Cross (ARC) Online CPR Certifications:

o   The American Red Cross offers online CPR courses that are simple to access and easy to complete. These courses are designed for coaches, parents, adults, and teenagers.

o   They provide training in Adult, Child, and Baby First Aid/CPR/AED as well as separate courses for Adult CPR/AED and Adult First Aid/CPR/AED.

o   However, it is important to note that these online courses do not include the opportunity to demonstrate skill proficiency to a certified instructor, so they may not meet requirements for workplace safety certification.

·        OSHA Standards and Workplace Safety:

o   For employees required to have CPR training, OSHA standards specify that online-only certifications are not acceptable.

o   Many employers, especially healthcare organizations, only accept certification from the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association (AHA). These certifications cannot be obtained online.

·        American Heart Association (AHA) Certifications:

o   The AHA also offers online courses, but their certification process typically involves a hands-on skills session with an instructor.

o   AHA certifications are widely recognized and accepted by employers, especially in healthcare settings.

6. Are your courses OSHA compliant?
• While the ARC Courses are designed to meet OSHA requirements, OSHA does not review or approve any courses for compliance.

7. Which CPR course should a “first responder” or “professional rescuer” take?
• First responders or professional rescuers include fire, police, and emergency medical personnel. These types of prehospital professionals usually need to complete a Basic Life Support (BLS) course. Check with your employer or licensing authority and learn more about our BLS course options.

8. Which course should a daycare provider take?
• The ARC Baby-sitting and Child Care Course is designed to meet regulatory requirements for childcare workers in all 50 United States. The course is offered in both blended learning and classroom-based formats.

9. Can I take an ARC CPR course online?
• For American Red Cross courses that include psychomotor skills such as CPR, students must complete an online and a hands-on skills session to obtain an ARC course completion certificate.

10.   Some CPR/First Aid training organizations offer certification at around $14 to $25 while ARC and AHA offer this at about $100. Why the difference?

The cost of CPR certification can vary based on several factors, including the organization providing the training, the type of certification, and the location. Let us explore why there might be differences in pricing:

·        Certifying Organizations:

o   The American Red Cross (ARC) and the American Heart Association (AHA) are two well-known organizations that offer CPR certification. Both have established reputations and widely recognized certifications.

o   The cost of certification may differ due to the specific curriculum, training materials, and administrative expenses associated with each organization.

·        Course Content and Materials:

o   The content covered in CPR courses can vary. Some courses may include additional topics beyond basic CPR, such as first aid, AED usage, and bloodborne pathogens.

o   The quality of training materials (books, videos, etc.) provided during the course can also impact on the cost.

·        Instructor Expertise and Location:

o   The qualifications and experience of the instructors play a significant role. Highly trained instructors may charge more for their services.

o   Geographic location matters. Training costs tend to be higher in urban areas due to higher living expenses and demand.

·        Class Format:

o   In-Person Classes: Traditional classroom-based courses with hands-on practice are more expensive due to facility rental, equipment, and instructor time.

o   Blended Learning: Some organizations offer a combination of online coursework followed by an in-person skills session. These may be more cost-effective.

·        Certification Type:

o   Basic CPR/AED: This certification covers adult, child, and infant CPR along with AED usage.

o   Healthcare Provider BLS: A more advanced certification required for healthcare professionals.

o   First Aid/CPR/AED: Includes first aid skills in addition to CPR and AED training.

o   The type of certification affects the cost.

·        Additional Services:

o   Some providers offer additional services, such as same-day certification, expedited processing, or group discounts. These may impact on the overall cost.

·        Discounts and Subsidies:

o   Some organizations offer discounts for students, military personnel, or group bookings.

o   Community centers, schools, and workplaces may subsidize or provide free training.

·        Quality Assurance and Reputation:

o   Both ARC and AHA maintain high standards for their certifications. Their reputation ensures that employers and institutions recognize their certifications.

o   The cost reflects the quality and credibility of the training.

11. Why is AED training included in all your CPR courses?
• The science behind CPR and ECC shows that victims have a greater chance of survival from cardiac arrest when high-quality CPR includes the use of an AED (automated external defibrillator).