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Why should my office have CPR and AED training?
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| If someone in your office is a victim of cardiac arrest, it may take an ambulance 8-12 minutes or more to arrive at their side. With every minute that passes without CPR, the victim's chance of survival decreases by 7-10 percent. Early bystander CPR and access to an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is imperative for a positive outcome in a workplace cardiac arrest. |
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Why is it important for me to learn how to defibrillate (shock) a persons heart? |
| CPR only “buys time” by pumping oxygen-rich blood around the body. Defibrillation and/or advanced medications are what can return the heart to a normal rhythm. The best outcomes are reported when a victim is debrillated (shocked) within the first four minutes. |
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The American Red Cross is larger than MasterCPR; should we be certified through them? |
| There are several major certifying agencies: the American Red Cross (ARC) and the American Heart Association (AHA) are among the most well known. The AHA is responsible for nearly all CPR-related research, and is the trusted source for medical professionals. Moreover, certifications from the AHA are valid for two full years whereas the ARC is valid for one year. MasterCPR uses AHA material and has very strict hiring policies for its instructors--the combination results in the best classes on the market. |
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Who should be trained in CPR and First Aid? |
| Everyone over the age of 12 years-old should participate in CPR, First Aid, and AED training. Statistics show that 1 in 1000 adults will die of sudden cardiac arrest, with everyday emergencies occurring much more frequently (nearly 916 per day). Without immediate bystander CPR and early defibrillation, a person in cardiac arrest will have less than a five percent chance of survival. With the rise of public access AEDs, it is important for there to be qualified and prepared rescuers to use them and help save lives. |
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Can I (or my company) be sued for administering CPR/First Aid or using an AED in an attempt to save a victim's life? |
The Good Samaritan Act provides excellent coverage for laypersons assisting a victim in cardiac arrest; in 2001, AEDs were wrapped into this coverage. Administrators of AED Programs are obligated to ensure that they are in compliance of federal, state, and local regulations in order to ensure that their liability is limited. |
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How do I choose the right CPR class for my company or group? |
| Most employees and individuals are advised to take the Heartsaver CPR/AED and First Aid class. This course is designed for lay rescuers who may need to respond to an emergency at work, home, or in public. Participants will receive a two-year certification with the Heartsaver course, which is valid for two full years. When choosing a training company, look for a vendor that meets all of your needs. Important questions to ask are: who will be doing the training and what field experience do they have; is there flexibiity in the dates on which the class will be held; what kind of follow-up training or assistance does the company offer; what type of project management and record keeping is offered with the training; what clients have they worked with in the past and are these clients content with the trainings--do the clients return year after year. Ask plenty of questions and remember that not all training companies provide equal services. |
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Some companies sell discounted Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) online. Is there any reason to not purchase through them? |
Installing AEDs in public settings is a relatively new concept. Consequently, the rules and regulations of AED program oversight vary between states and even local counties. Unless your team has a person who is very well versed in AED program implementation, it is important to choose a provider that can walk you through both the purchasing process and the rules and the evolving regulations in your area. Companies that tell you that AEDs pose no risk of litigation are wrong; however, a well-implemented and administered AED program carries less risk than having no program at. The greatest legal risk comes from having AEDs with improper implementation.
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