Despite the increasing prevalence and convenience of online classes, not everyone is suited to online learning. For some, an in-person class offers some benefits that make it worth considering. But how long does a CPR class take, and can you even fit it into your busy schedule?
Classroom CPR classes have been around since the 1970s, when a man named Leonard Cobb started teaching CPR to citizens in Seattle. Classroom lessons provide valuable expertise coupled with detailed instructions on performing life-saving skills like rescue breathing, chest compressions, and even automated external defibrillator (AED) use.
If you’re wondering, “How long does a CPR class take, and will it work for my schedule?”, keep reading to learn what to expect from an in-person CPR class.
What to Expect From an In-Person CPR Class
Classroom training offers a structured learning environment with expert instructors who can guide students through the certification process. Whether it’s a technical certification or a business certification, there’s a classroom training program designed to help professionals achieve their goals.
During a classroom CPR class, you can expect to learn the proper techniques for administering CPR and using an AED, as well as how to recognize the signs of a heart attack or stroke. The instructor will demonstrate the proper steps and then give you and your classmates the chance to practice.
You’ll get opportunities to ask questions and participate in class discussions to foster a greater sense of preparedness. By the end of the class, you should have both the knowledge and the physical skills to administer CPR.
Most organizations offer certification levels to meet different needs. An entry-level certification may suffice if you’re simply looking for the peace of mind of knowing CPR, while higher-level certifications like Basic Life Support or Advanced Cardiac Life Support can provide further training for medical professionals.
Benefits of Attending a Classroom CPR Class
While online courses may seem convenient, there are benefits to attending a classroom CPR class. In a classroom setting, you have the opportunity to ask questions and receive immediate feedback and correction on your technique. You can also practice on a real person or manikin to better understand the pressure and force needed for effective CPR.
Additionally, in-person classes provide the chance for hands-on experience with other life-saving techniques, such as using an AED. Attending a classroom CPR class not only gives you the knowledge and skills needed to potentially save a life, but also the confidence and ability to apply those skills in real-life situations.
How Long Does a CPR Class Take?
CPR classes are an essential part of emergency training, providing students with vital knowledge of how to perform CPR. In-person classes typically run between two and five hours, depending on the level of training and the certification requirements.
The good news is that CPR classes are widely available in most communities, and they offer hands-on training to equip you with the necessary experience to perform CPR. But in addition to, “How long does a CPR class take?”, a question that often comes up is, “Can I practice on a manikin in a CPR classroom?”
The answer is yes, absolutely! CPR manikins are specially designed to mimic real-life scenarios and provide an effective training platform for CPR learners. Manikins come equipped with sensors that mimic chest compressions and can provide valuable feedback on the effectiveness of your compressions during training.
Who Should Take an In-Person CPR Class?
Classroom-based CPR classes are an essential tool for anyone looking to learn how to perform CPR effectively. These classes teach students the proper techniques for giving chest compressions, rescue breaths, and using an AED. Anyone taking a CPR class for the first time would benefit from the hands-on experience of an in-person class.
People that learn better in an interactive environment with an instructor, or those who are looking for more advanced certification than an online course offers. On the other hand, people who need basic certification or prefer more independent learning might benefit from taking an online course instead.
However, for those who are unable to commit to long-term learning, either due to location or lifestyle, classroom-based instruction may not be the best choice. In these cases, blended or online classes might be a better option.
In-Person CPR Class Options & Alternatives
The simplest way to find an in-class CPR program is by speaking to your school or workplace administration to see if they have any scheduled programs. You can also check your local community center, hospitals, and fire departments.
Alternatively, blended CPR training offers a combination of online learning and hands-on experience. If you’re short on time but would still like the benefits of in-person learning, ProTrainings blended courses include a manikin so you can practice CPR while completing our web-based interactive videos.
Unlike online courses, classroom courses allow for hands-on practice of techniques on manikins and also offer different levels of certification so individuals can choose what best fits them. Attending a CPR class is an extremely rewarding experience — not only in terms of life-saving skills but also in terms of personal growth.
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