CPR Certification Requirements for EMTs in Washington
Washington is a unique and special state, and it’s one of the states that has recently seen a surge of support for online-based CPR certification in recent years.
Just like any state, it’s important to know what the acceptance is for online CPR certifications. Below we’ve prepared a list of the specific approvals of ProTrainings courses for EMTs in the state of Washington.
Summary of CPR Certification Requirements for Washington
- EMS professionals in Washington are required to have a Healthcare Provider level CPR/BLS (Basic Life Support) certification.
- The Washington Department of Health, Emergency Medical Services and Trauma System requires Healthcare Provider level BLS/CPR, AED with practical skills component.
- Most employers will require a Healthcare Provider level BLS/CPR.
- For continuing education; Emergency Medical Responders through Paramedics can claim 4 basic CE credits for BLS/CPR Certification with a practical portion.
- CAPCE requires to maintain a CPR certification for Healthcare Providers with a practical skills component.
Course Content
EMS Providers in Washington usually need a Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) certification at the Healthcare Provider level. Required skills include; Adult, child and infant CPR, AED, and use of a bag-valve-mask. Some EMS may also need a First Aid course as well, but this is determined by the employer.
Delivery Method
EMS Providers in Washington are required to do the Basic Life Support level of CPR certification for Healthcare Providers that includes a practical skills evaluation through a classroom or blended training process. 100% online CPR will only be an option upon the discretion of the employer or institution and is not accepted by the state licensing department or for continuing education credits for Emergency Medical Services.
Some employers may require a specific type of training, or may leave it up to the State’s requirement. If you are not certain of your employer's requirement, make sure to check with them about both the training type and the required course content.
CAPCE (Commission on Accreditation for Pre-Hospital Continuing Education)
Summary of CPR Certification Requirements for Washington:
CAPCE (previously called CECBEMS) requires maintaining CPR for Healthcare Providers that includes practical skills evaluation component. As a CAPCE-accredited organization, we have multiple courses available for CE hours listed, covering ACLS, PALS, Ergonomics, Bloodborne Pathogens and others. Go to our courses page and click on sign up for CEs.
Ask our compliance teamBoard Statement:
CAPCE (previously CECBEMS) recognizes that EMS providers are required to maintain certification in a number of disciplines, including:
- BLS for Healthcare Providers (CPR)
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
EMS providers frequently maintain these certifications simultaneously through distributive learning. There are a number of CAPCE-accredited organizations that offer these certification courses. Basic Life Support (BLS) must always include a hands-on component.
Board Req. Board InfoState Department of Health, Emergency Medical Services, and Trauma Care System
Summary of CPR Certification Requirements for Washington:
The Washington State Department of Health, Emergency Medical Services and Trauma Care System requires Healthcare Provider level CPR certification with practical skills component that is accepted by the Board or CAPCE approved.
Ask our compliance teamBoard Statement:
WAC 246-976-161
General education requirements for EMS provider recertification.
(2) Education for recertification must be approved by the MPD. Educational and topic content requirements must include:
(b) Nationally recognized training programs for CPR, foreign body airway obstruction (FBAO), and defibrillation and patient care appropriate to the level of certification. Training must be at the health care provider level and meet Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) standards;
Board Req. Board InfoChoose your CPR Training Method:
100% Online
Progress through your CPR and first aid certification online from any device! Easily complete your training online so you can finish your certification anytime, anywhere.
View CoursesBlended
In addition to your online first aid and CPR certification, practice hands-on with a CPR manikin in a blended program.
View CoursesClassroom
Our online CPR and first aid certification resources can be used to facilitate classroom training, skills practice, and continuing education.
View Courses