reasons to take cpr classes

What is the Out-of-Hospital Chain of Survival?

5 days ago

When a person goes into sudden cardiac arrest outside of a health care facility, there is a specific sequence of events that, if performed fully and efficiently, can significantly improve their chances of survival and recovery. This is known as the Out-of-Hospital Chain of Survival.

According to the American Heart Association, there are six steps in this process. Each step is vitally important to a cardiac arrest patient’s survival. It’s important to understand the chain and what role you might play, should you encounter someone in sudden cardiac arrest.

The Six Steps of the Out-of-Hospital Chain of Survival

Recognition and Emergency Activation

The first step is recognizing the occurrence of a cardiac arrest, and contacting emergency response (calling 911)

High-Quality CPR

Next, perform CPR as quickly as possible – this can be hands-only CPR with an emphasis on chest compressions.

Watch how to Perform Hands-only CPR

Defibrillation

Use an AED if one is available, and follow the prompts to deliver defibrillation.

Step by Step: How to Use an AED

Advanced Resuscitation

Once emergency medical responders arrive, they will perform resuscitation and advanced care.

Post-Cardiac Arrest Care

Following a cardiac arrest, patients are provided comprehensive medical treatment and support to optimize outcomes and chances of survival.

Recovery and Survivorship

The last steps for the cardiac arrest patient are recovery treatment, rehabilitation or observation as needed.

A Bystander’s Role in the Chain of Survival

The first three steps of the chain must often be performed by bystanders, whether or not they know the patient. If nothing else, it’s vital to understand when a sudden cardiac arrest is taking place, and to call 911.

But performing CPR as soon as possible is key to improving outcomes.

According to data from 2024, while only about 1 in 10 people survive an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, immediate bystander CPR can double or even triple a person’s chances of survival. And because about 70 percent of cardiac arrests take place in the home, the life you save may be that of a family member.

How CPR Training Helps You Stay Prepared

If you do not have to have an active certification to perform CPR, however, routine CPR training can help you stay prepared, confident and enhance your overall technique and accuracy.

Many individuals first decide to take CPR and first aid training primarily because they want to be prepared and keep their families safe. Some may take CPR training because their employer offered it, and others want to contribute to the safety of their community.

A recent survey from the American Red Cross found that adults trained in CPR, AED, and First Aid reported positive outcomes: 69% felt more prepared, 63% felt more confident, and nearly half felt relief knowing they had the skills to act when it mattered most.

Common Questions About the Chain of Survival

What is the most important link in the chain of survival?

Recognizing an emergency comes first. In the event of a medical emergency, instinctively we want to help the person, but it is crucial to first call 911 for professional medical assistance and then perform CPR immediately after.

What is the difference between the out-of-hospital and in-hospital chain of survival?

Out-of-hospital, just as it sounds, refers to a cardiac medical emergency that occurs anywhere outside of a hospital setting. As expected, chances of survival are lower, but proper training and action from bystanders can significantly help improve outcomes.

How long does it take to get CPR certified?

CPR certification can be completed in as little as 2-4 hours. HeartCert has flexible CPR and first aid training options from in-person, blended and online courses to seamlessly fit your schedule.

Be Ready to Take Life-Saving Action

A medical emergency can happen to anyone, anywhere, any time. In those critical moments, survival may depend on your ability to recognize the signs, call emergency services, and take action with life-saving CPR and an AED.

Don’t wait for an emergency to happen. Learn how to be the most critical link in the Chain of Survival.

Schedule a CPR training course today.

Sources:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6088442/

https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/resources/articles/cpr-facts-and-statistics

This is an updated blog original published in 2021.

HeartCert is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, TMA, IV, EKG and more, throughout the United States.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We offer virtual courses and certifications, in all 50 states as well as in-person classes at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan and major cities in Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Texas and Wisconsin.

Five Reasons to Learn CPR in 2023

3 years ago

Five Reasons to Learn CPR in 2023

In 2023 the importance of learning life-saving skills like CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) has never been more critical. With the ever-changing landscape of global health and safety concerns, being equipped with the knowledge and ability to respond effectively in an emergency situation can make a world of difference. Here we’ll look at five impactful reasons why learning CPR should be a priority.

Check out our full lineup of CPR, AED and first aid courses, and read on for five great reasons to learn CPR in 2023!

CPR Can Save a Life

More than 350,000 people suffer from cardiac arrest every year in the U.S. When this happens, time is of the essence – the longer the body stays in arrest, the lower the chance of survival. CPR helps the blood circulate until help arrives. In fact, research shows that the likelihood of surviving a cardiac arrest more than doubles when CPR is performed.

6 CPR Facts You May Not Know

More CPR is Needed

Bystander CPR is performed in less than half of cardiac arrests in the U.S. – between 15 and 30 percent, in fact. The most common reason given for not performing CPR is a lack of training.

CPR Does Not Require Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation

In 2010, the guidelines for performing CPR were changed. Now, only people who are trained and feel comfortable performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation should do so. For the rest, hands-only CPR is an excellent, life-saving option.

Related Read: Why Should I Learn CPR?

Most Cardiac Arrests Happen at Home

More than 85 percent, in fact. You may need CPR to save the life of your parent, spouse, sibling or child. What better motivation is there?

CPR is Easy to Learn!

CPR classes are readily available, affordable, and take just a couple of hours. That’s a small trade-off for learning how to save a life. With HeartCert’s Virtual Red Cross CPR/AED/First Aid course you can learn CPR in no time. Sign up today and gain instant access to required course videos and materials so that you can complete our virtual CPR training online. For a more hands on experience, we offer a revolutionary one-on-one experience with our CPR Kiosk training where you can learn life-saving skills on your time with a private instructor.

Whether you’re a caregiver, a healthcare professional or a prepared individual, acquiring CPR knowledge is invaluable and can empower you to act confidently during a health emergency. The benefits of CPR training are extensive, from saving lives and increasing community resilience to boosting your confidence and being prepared for unforeseen emergencies.

Ready to learn CPR in 2023?

Check out the HeartCert CPR class offerings and sign up today.

This is an updated blog post that was originally published in 2019.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR, First Aid, CNA, IV, EKG and more, in Minnesota and throughout the United States.

HeartCert CPR courses include CPR/AED/First Aid, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Certified Nursing Assistant training, IV training, EKG training, babysitter basics and more. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at all locations and our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Why Should I Learn CPR?

5 years ago

Life is busy. If you’re struggling to juggle work, home, family and other obligations, the thought of adding another task to your to-do list can be overwhelming. But all of those obligations, and the people you interact with through them, make it even more important to learn CPR.

The good news: HeartCert CPR is now offering hybrid and virtual CPR courses! You can complete some or all of your CPR training from home, when it fits into your schedule. Check out our full course schedule and contact us to learn more.

Still need a push? Here are five reasons to make CPR training a priority in the coming months.

Four Reasons to Learn CPR

4 reasons to learn CPR — photo credit: @splitti accessed 7/2/21 via CC0

Bystander CPR is Underperformed: More than 325,000 people go into cardiac arrest outside of a medical setting in the U.S. every year. When CPR is performed immediately, their odds of survival are more than doubled. Because it takes time to get emergency responders on the scene, it’s vital for bystanders to know and be ready to perform CPR.
Most Cardiac Arrests Happen at Home: We’ve all been spending a lot more time at home in the last year. Did you know that more than 85 percent of cardiac arrests happen in the home? Knowing CPR could save the lives of your loved ones.
CPR Does Not Require Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation: Hands-on CPR became the approved method of bystander CPR in 2010. No mouth-to-mouth contact is needed.
CPR Can Save a Life: Every year in the U.S., 475,000 people die of cardiac arrest. If more people were trained in CPR, that number could be significantly decreased.

Are You Ready to Learn CPR?

Don’t wait another day. Register for a HeartCert CPR training course today!

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

This is an updated blog post that was originally published in 2019.

Why Women Are Less Likely to Receive CPR

5 years ago

February marks both American Heart Month and Go Red for Women. This makes it the perfect time to discuss overall heart health and the impact of heart disease, and related biases, on women. For example: did you know that women are less likely to receive CPR from a bystander than men? This was the finding of a recent survey, and it translates to greater impacts for women of all demographics.

According to a 2018 survey discussed by the American Heart Association, 45% of men received bystander CPR, compared to 39% of women. Overall, men had a 23% higher likelihood of survival than women.

women receive CPR — photo credit: @giulia_bertelli accessed 2/3/21 via CC0

To ensure better outcomes for women suffering from cardiac arrest, here are a few ways to promote and encourage performing bystander CPR on women.

Why Are Women Less Likely to Receive CPR Than Men?

Survey respondents gave three primary reasons for their reluctance to perform CPR on women.

Fear of being accused of inappropriate physical contact or sexual assault
Fear of harming the victim
The misconception that women don’t have cardiac arrests or are being overdramatic

For men, the first reason is the most prevalent, and the second is most prevalent for women.

How to Encourage Bystanders to Perform CPR on Women

Education is one of the easiest and most effective ways to dispel myths and encourage bystanders to perform CPR on women. For example, there is a very small probability of injuring someone by administering CPR on them. If that is more widely known and understood, there might be less hesitance.

In addition, greater education about the necessity of performing CPR could help, especially when helping people overcome fears of sexual assault accusations. When a woman is in medical distress, help is necessary, even if it feels inappropriate at the time.

Training more people on how to perform hands-free CPR could significantly reduce this disparity. Consider hosting a CPR course for your workplace, or register for a virtual class.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Include Heart Attack Prevention in Game Day Planning

5 years ago

With the Superbowl fast approaching, football fans are deciding which team to root for, choosing a jersey, and – most importantly – planning snacks. One additional task you should take on before game day? Becoming aware of common heart attack symptoms and brushing up on CPR.

Why should heart attack prevention be part of game day planning? Research has found a link between major sporting events, like the Superbowl and World Cup, and an increase in heart attacks and arrhythmias. Even if you don’t have any elevated risk factors for heart disease, here are a few things you can do to protect your heart on game day.

Manage Stress

When you have an attachment to a team or an outcome and the game isn’t going the way you’d hoped, stress can ramp way up. This causes an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, potentially triggering a cardiovascular event.

Know Your Risks

If you have any preexisting risk factors, such as obesity, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, or high blood pressure, you may be more susceptible to a heart attack on game day. Talk to your doctor about ways to improve your heart health and minimize risk.

Focus on the Positive

Instead of focusing just on the game play and outcome of the game, try to enjoy the whole day for what it is – a fun get-together with family and friends. Laugh at the commercials, take in the halftime show, and have a memorable and low-stress day.

Whether you’re a football fan or not, hands-only CPR is a good skill to have. Check out our full offering of virtual and in-person CPR and first aid courses.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

This is an updated blog post that was originally published in October 2018.

Common Heart Attack Symptoms in Women

5 years ago

If someone asked you to name common heart attack symptoms, what would you say? The first to come to mind would probably be sudden chest pressure, left arm pain and a loss of consciousness. And that’s not wrong – if you’re talking about common symptoms in men. When it comes to women, heart attack symptoms are different, and they’re often much less obvious.

Different Causes Result in Different Symptoms

When men suffer a heart attack, it’s often caused by significant plaque build up and a resulting blood clot. Therefore, symptoms are more likely to be sudden and severe, like those discussed above.

What’s the difference between heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest? Click here to learn more.

In women, however, heart attacks are more often caused by plaque erosion – when smaller pieces of plaque partially block arteries. Because this is a more subtle stop of blood flow, symptoms are less severe and recognizable.

Common Heart Attack Symptoms in Women

Half of women don’t experience any chest pain, and many of the common symptoms mimic other ailments. This is why it’s important for women to understand their risk factors, watch for symptoms, and always advocate for their health.

Common symptoms include:

Sudden, extreme fatigue
Shortness of breath
Indigestion and heartburn
Dizziness
Back and neck pain
Arm and jaw pain
Chest pain, discomfort and pressure

If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact a medical professional.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications, as well as safe in-person courses at our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

This is an updated blog post that was originally published in November 2018.

American Heart Association Issues New CPR Guidelines

6 years ago

In the new CPR guidelines recently issued by the American Heart Association, the importance of bystander CPR was re-emphasized. “Cardiac arrest is a life-or-death situation,” the AHA committee chair said. “When every second counts, it’s important for lay people to be ready and willing to start CPR.”

The new guidelines recommend that bystanders CPR even if they aren’t sure whether the victim is in cardiac arrest. The risk of harm from CPR is low – especially when compared to the potential risk of cardiac arrest.

New CPR Guidelines Focus on Recovery

In a change, the new CPR guidelines add recovery to the “chain of survival.” The chain of survival is a series of actions that determine how and to what extent a patient will recover from cardiac arrest. Those actions include calling 911, performing CPR, and using an automated external defibrillator (AED).

The new recovery phase includes treatment, surveillance and rehabilitation, which includes monitoring and treating depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress caused by the cardiac arrest and heart disease treatment.

Expanding Bystander CPR

The new guidelines also included efforts to encourage bystander CPR. The AHA suggests leveraging mobile phone technology to alert bystanders of a nearby cardiac event. In addition, there is a need for bystander training tailored to specific racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic populations that traditionally have lower rates of bystander CPR.

Ready to learn CPR? HeartCert is here to help. We’re offering virtual CPR training options to keep our students safe. Contact us to learn more.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota.

We are now offering virtual CPR courses and certifications! Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Tips for Caregiving During COVID-19

6 years ago

Caring for ill or elderly family members can be difficult in the best of times, but for many, the pandemic has made caregiving even more stressful. People who receive daily care tend to be older or dealing with long-term illness, making them more susceptible to contracting COVID-19. So in addition to the usual physical care needs, caregivers will need to take extra steps to protect the health of their loved ones. Further, there are additional needs related to mental health, medical care planning and coordination, and a caregiver’s own health.

There are a few things that caregivers can to do make caregiving more manageable during the pandemic.

Learn CPR

Be sure that you are prepared to handle any situation that could arise, whether caused by COVID-19 or not. The majority of cardiac arrests happen at home, so being able to perform hands-only CPR could make all the difference for your loved one.

Plan for Medication and Necessary Supplies

Try to get 90-day (or longer) supplies of prescriptions. Look into drive-through pharmacies or medication delivery.
Make a list of necessary home care supplies, such as delivery mechanisms for treatment or medication, and distilled water for CPAP machines. Obtain a larger stock of supplies if possible.

Discuss Treatment Options

Learn whether your loved one’s medical team is doing telemedicine visits, and how to access all members of the team virtually.
Discuss whether your loved one will need to be physically present for any procedures, such as tests or blood draws, and the safety precautions being taken.

Make a Safety Plan

Keep up with all safety recommendations, such as masks and social distancing. Ensure that all who come into contact with your loved one are taking precautions.

Finalize Health Care Wishes and Directives

Ensure that all legal documents are up to date, and have candid conversations about your loved one’s wishes.

Don’t Forget Mental Health

If you or your loved one are feeling anxious or isolated, make your mental health and happiness a priority. Reach out to a therapist if you need help.

Care for Yourself

Do your best to eat healthy, be physically active, minimize stress and get enough sleep. If you’re not feeling well, caregiving will be even that much more difficult.

If you’re ready to learn CPR and first aid to protect your loved one, HeartCert is here to help. We’re offering virtual CPR training options to keep our students safe. Contact us to learn more.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout greater Minnesota. HeartCert offers a variety of courses, including CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Certified Nursing Assistant training. Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Performing Bystander CPR During COVID-19

6 years ago

Many studies have shown a significant increase in cardiac arrest survival rates when CPR is started immediately – before emergency responders arrive. However, many people hesitate to perform bystander CPR, due to a lack of training or fears about causing greater harm. With the COVID-19 pandemic spreading throughout Minnesota and the United States, those fears are even more pronounced.

According to the American Heart Association, bystander CPR remains vitally important, especially during coronavirus. Emergency response systems could be overloaded in some hard-hit areas. This may increase the wait time for an ambulance – and lower the likelihood of survival for cardiac arrest patients.

The Risk of Contracting Coronavirus When Performing Bystander CPR

Because COVID-19 symptoms don’t show up for several days after infection, there is a potential risk of contracting the virus while performing CPR on a stranger. Current guidelines advise bystanders to take their own risk factors into account when determining whether to perform hands-on CPR in a public setting. Placing a mask over your own face and that of the patient may help prevent the spread of the virus.

Whatever you decide, call 911 first. If there’s an AED nearby, use it.

CPR Could Save Your Family Member

It’s estimated that about 70% of cardiac arrests happen in the home. So, there’s a good chance that you may need to perform CPR on a member of your household. Brush up on hands-only CPR through an online class, so you’re ready if the need arises.

Protect the hearts of all those around you by taking a CPR/AED course through HeartCert CPR. Register for a virtual course today.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout greater Minnesota. HeartCert offers a variety of courses, including CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Emergency Medical Responder – First Responder (EMR). Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Your Spouse’s Health May Affect Your Heart

6 years ago

With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, many people are buying gifts and planning dates, thinking about the best way to show their love. Here’s an idea that could really be good for your partner’s heart: adopt healthier habits! That’s the takeaway from new research into the effect of one spouse’s health on another.

Spouse’s Health May Affect Your Heart — photo credit: @brandless accessed 01/23/20 via CC0

In the study, researchers examined five years of biometric and blood test data from more than 5,000 couples. They examined each participant’s overall cardiovascular health and levels of risk factors such as diet and exercise, smoking, total cholesterol and blood pressure.

Researchers found that couples were actually more likely to align on negative health habits, such as eating an unhealthy diet or not exercising enough. It followed that, in three-fourths of couples studied, if one partner had suboptimal heart health, the other partner did too.

The study findings didn’t come as much of a surprise, researchers said. We tend to marry people who are similar to us. Further, if one member of a household is exposed to a factor that affects health, such as lack of access to healthy food, the other members usually are too.

But researchers say that the study findings present a unique opportunity: to focus on one spouse’s health in order to improve the health of a couple, a family or even a community.

Want to protect your family’s health in just one day? Sign up for a Minneapolis CPR class with HeartCert CPR!

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for CPR, ACLS, PALS, EMR and First Aid in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota. We offer online, night and weekend classes to fit your busy schedule!

HeartCert offers a variety of courses, including CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Emergency Medical Responder – First Responder (EMR). Courses and certifications from both the American Heart Association and American Red Cross are available.

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our new headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Make Your Workplace More Heart-Healthy

7 years ago

We spend a large portion of our lives at work. Whether you work full- or part-time, at a workplace or remote, in front of a computer or on your feet, or anywhere in between, it’s important to make healthy habits part of your daily work routine.

We have a few tips from the American Heart Association on making your workplace more heart-healthy, but we’d love to hear your ideas as well. Share in the comments or on our Facebook page!

Get Moving

Moving more at work starts with the commute. Walk, bike or take public transit if possible, or park far away and take the stairs instead of the elevator. Move often throughout the day by setting a recurring alarm in your calendar. Stand during telephone calls, and plan walking meetings with coworkers. You’ll find yourself with more energy and motivation!

heart-healthy workplace — *photo credit: www.pexels.com accessed 08/20/2018 via CC0*

Stretch and Tone

Spending all day hunched in front of a computer can take a toll. Spend a few minutes stretching out your neck, back and legs. Use your desk chair or cubicle wall to do modified exercises, like tricep dips and squats.

Focus on Stress

Stress can be a huge contributor to heart disease. Practice mindfulness and deep breathing to deal with day-to-day stressors. If chronic stress is an issue, consider talking to a mental health professional. (Many employer-provided health plans have some sort of mental health hotline to help defray costs.)

Take Advantage of Health Benefits

Whether you have employer-provided health insurance or not, your plan most likely includes annual exams and basic screenings, such as for blood pressure and cholesterol. Find out what your plan covers and take advantage of it! In many cases of heart disease, early preventative action can make a big difference.

Get Trained in CPR!

Because every office worker should know how to save a life.

HeartCert CPR is your trusted training partner for First Aid and CPR in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota. We now offer online, night and weekend classes to fit your busy schedule! We offer a variety of courses, including CPR/AED/First Aid and CPR/AED, Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Emergency Medical Responder – First Responder (EMR).

Find your CPR class at any of our convenient Twin Cities locations, including our new headquarters, HeartCert CPR Eagan.

Five Reasons to Learn CPR in 2019

7 years ago

Did you set New Year’s resolutions for 2019? Perhaps you want to eat better, sleep more, get more exercise, or budget your money more wisely. Whatever your resolutions, we have one to add to your list: learn CPR.

Learning CPR is fast, easy and inexpensive – and it could make you a hero. Check out our full lineup of CPR, AED and first aid courses, and read on for five great reasons to learn CPR in 2019!