How to Get Your AED Certification Online in Easy Steps

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table of Contents

What does an AED certification course include?

Familiarize Yourself with the Equipment and Location of Your AEDs

Practice Using the AED Without Bumps and Shocks

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions, Even During the Test

Conclusion

 

Sudden cardiac arrest is among the leading causes of death in the United States. In fact, more than 350,000 people will suffer a cardiac arrest this year. Currently, the only way to restore a regular heart rhythm during cardiac arrest is to use an AED. Of course, you can – and should – request the assistance of trained medical professionals. However, because the average response time for first responders once 911 is called is 8-12 minutes, and for each minute defibrillation is delayed, the odds of survival are reduced by approximately 10%, having access to and AED and knowing how to use one, is critical.

 

What does an AED certification online course include?

AED certification courses provide information on the workings of the human heart and how cardiac arrest occurs, best practices for using an AED, CPR techniques for adult, child, and infant, as well as how to recognize a potential heart attack. You’ll also take a hands-on skills test with an AED manikin. AED certification courses may differ in cost, length, and type of exam, but all provide the necessary information to prepare you for using an AED.

 

Familiarize Yourself with the Equipment and Location of Your AEDs

Before you can begin using an AED on the victim of a sudden cardiac arrest, you must first become familiar with the equipment. You should know the make, model, and serial number of the device, where it is located, and how to use it. When you’re first inspecting the AED, look for an expiration date. If the device is past its expiration date, you should replace it immediately. You should also familiarize yourself with any other instructions present on the device. The location of your AEDs is just as important as knowing how to use them. You should place your AEDs in areas where they will be easily accessible in the event of a cardiac arrest.

 

Practice Using the AED Without Bumps and Shocks

Before attempting to use the AED on a victim, you should first practice using it without shocking the device. This will help you to become familiar with the device and gain confidence in your ability to use it without shocking the victim. You should also practice using the AED with the victim standing upright, since the person experiencing a cardiac arrest may be standing upright in the real-life situation. You should also practice with a person who is willing to help you. This will allow you to learn how to properly position the victim as well as how to properly use the AED.

 

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions, Even During the Test

If you’re unsure about anything related to the AED certification exam, you should ask your instructor. You don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to receive your certification because you were too afraid to admit you didn’t know something. The certification exam is designed to test your knowledge of the AED and its proper use. You may be asked about the type of AED you’re using, how long it takes to deliver a shock, as well as how long it takes to deliver a charge. Remember that the certification exam is a pass or fail situation.

 

Conclusion

While sudden cardiac arrest is a serious medical emergency and people do die, the odds of surviving increase significantly if the victim receives CPR and an electric shock from an AED within the first few minutes. The best way to increase your chances of surviving sudden cardiac arrest is to know how to use an AED and to have one readily available. If you’re interested in becoming certified to use an AED, you should consider becoming an AED instructor. Once you’ve completed the necessary steps to become an AED instructor, you’ll be prepared to save the life of a person experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.