Why Learn CPR
Ask our expert how it can help you save a life
- I don't know CPR. Why is it important for me to learn it and how much of a difference can it make?
- How long does it take to be trained?
- Where can I learn CPR?
- How often do I need to be recertified?
- I hear there are new life-saving devices that anyone can use called AED's. What are AED's and where can I find them?
- Is it important for people to be trained to use an AED?
- Can I still use an AED if I'm not trained?
- If someone collapses and is unconscious, which should be used, CPR or an AED?
Q: I don't know CPR. Why is it important for me to learn it and how much of a difference can it make?
A: CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. In sudden cardiac arrest, a person's chance for survival decreases by 10 percent every minute that CPR and defibrillation does not occur. CPR performed quickly after collapse can enhance a person's chances of survival by correcting the electrical disturbances that could be present in the heart during sudden cardiac arrest.
Q: How long does it take to be trained?
A: The length of a course depends on the curriculum being delivered as well as the content of that particular curriculum. The American Heart Association's (AHA) Healthcare Provider course is approximately four hours for an entire course and approximately three hours for a renewal course. For Heartsaver curricula, time varies from about two to four hours.
Q: Where can I learn CPR?
A: Lehigh Valley Hospital provides AHA-approved CPR training through the Emergency Medicine Institute (EMI). Call 610-402-CARE for information or visit EMI's website at www.emi-lvh.com.
Q: How often do I need to be recertified?
A: This really depends on the certifying agency. The AHA recommends an individual renew his/her CPR certification every two years. The American Red Cross recommends yearly CPR renewal.
Q: I hear there are new life-saving devices that anyone can use called AED's. What are AED's and where can I find them?
A: AED stands for automated external defibrillator. AED's are able to deliver an electrical shock to the heart to try to "restart" it and hopefully allow the heart to begin to beat again in a normal fashion. These devices are very user-friendly and can be found in public facilities like Lehigh Valley Hospital and the Lehigh Valley and South malls, and municipal buildings like the Lower Macungie Township and Hanover Township buildings.
Q: Is it important for people to be trained to use an AED?
A: Ideally, everyone should be trained in CPR and the use of an AED. However, the AED manufacturers make these devices so they can be used by almost anyone, even those without any formal training.
Q: Can I still use an AED if I'm not trained?
A: As recommended, everyone should have some type of training. But those without AED training should not be afraid to use one. AED's include visual aids as well as voice prompts that tell the operator what to do making it a simple device to use.
Q: If someone collapses and is unconscious, which should be used, CPR or an AED?
A: Both CPR and the AED (if available) should be used. If it is an adult that collapses, the emergency response system should be activated immediately by calling 9-1-1. If an AED is not readily available, CPR should be started. As soon as an AED is available it should be used. For a child, the AHA recommends two minutes of CPR before calling 9-1-1 or using an AED.
This page last updated 1/6/09 01:49 PM
