Resuscitation training is a lifesaving skill that everyone should know. However, many people are not sure how often they need to do this training.
The thing about CPR training is that it’s not like learning to ride a bike. You can’t just do it once and expect to remember everything.
Here are 10 things you should know about resuscitation training:
1. Resuscitation training should be done every two years
This is the minimum amount of time recommended by most organisations. However, some experts believe that this should be done every year.
Also, if you have a job that involves working with the public, then you should definitely be doing this training every year.
2. You can never be too old to learn CPR
It’s never too late to learn how to do CPR. In fact, older people are more likely to need this skill as they are more likely to have medical conditions that could lead to cardiac arrest.
For example, someone who has survived a heart attack is at a higher risk of having another one. And, CPR can help to save their life.
3. You don’t need to be fit to do CPR
CPR is mostly about using your body weight to compress the chest of the collapsed person. So, you don’t need to be super fit to do it.
Also, there is no need to worry about doing CPR on someone who is obese. The chest compressions will still work, even if the person is large.
4. It’s not as difficult as you might think
CPR is actually quite simple. Once you know the basics, it’s just a case of doing it correctly and with enough force.
Did you know that you can do CPR on a baby? It’s actually quite easy to do and only slightly different from doing it on an adult.
5. The survival rate for CPR is low
Unfortunately, the survival rate for CPR is quite low. However, it is still worth doing as it can sometimes save a life.
6. You should always call the emergency first
Before starting CPR, you should always call the emergency number and ask for an ambulance. The operator will then talk you through the steps of CPR.
7. You need to know how to do mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is an important part of CPR. This involves breathing into the mouth of the person who has collapsed to help them breathe.
8. You can do CPR without mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
If you’re uncomfortable with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, you can do chest compressions only. This is still effective and could save a life.
9. Automated external defibrillators are now widely available
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are now widely available in public places. These can be used to shocks the heart back into a normal rhythm.
10. You should do a first aid course as well as CPR training
CPR training is just one part of first aid. It’s also important to know what to do in other emergencies, such as choking, bleeds and breaks.
So, there you have it. 10 things you should know about resuscitation training. Remember, this vital skill could one day save a life.
