CPR Training

According to the American Heart Association, every day 917 Americans will suffer a sudden cardiac arrest from coronary artery disease. At the time of sudden cardiac arrest, the victim's chances of survival decrease by 10 percent every minute that passes by without CPR and defibrillation. Studies have proven that the clear difference between survival and death for these victims is early CPR and early defibrillation.

What is CPR?

Cariopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a technique to create blood circulation in the body of a person whose heart stopped beating. By giving rescue breaths and chest compressions, the victim's blood is circulated to provide the brain and vital organs with oxygen. Studies show that CPR "buys time" for the victim until an automatic external defibrillator (AED) can get to the patient. AEDs provide an electrical shock to the patient's heart in an attempt to create a normal heart beat. Although AEDs are carried on many emergency vehicles, they need to be as accessible as possible to reach the victim as quicly as possible . This is why it is so important that everyone learn CPR and AED use. It is most likely that a layperson, and not a healthcare professional, will witness a sudden cardiac arrest. It will be a layperson that can quickly begin CPR and retrieve an AED. This is why Howard County has begun placing AEDs in public locations and police cars and encouraging the public to learn CPR through free classes and public education programs.

What will I learn in a CPR class?

CPR education has come a long way. Today, class structure is based on studies that show skill retention increases with more "hands-on" time and repitition. The majority of class is dedicated to giving you the most time possible to practice CPR on mannequins. You will learn and practice the following skills based on the American Heart Association standards:

• How to quickly and calmly call 9-1-1 in an emergency.
• How to help someone choking.
• How to breath for someone not breathing using a barrier device.
• How to perform CPR on someone with no heart beat.
• How recognize the signs of a heart attack and stroke.
• How to properly monitor an uncouscious person.

What if I have a large group?

You can contact the CPR Hotline and arrange for a CPR course be taught for your group. The cost per course is $25.00. At least 10 participants, but no more than 20, must be present for the class. You can request adult-only, infant/child-only, or adult and infant/child. Classes must be taught at the Columbia Gateway Building.