How to Get CPR Certified

Your step-by-step guide to getting CPR certified and saving lives!

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a life-saving technique used during emergencies when someone’s heartbeat or breathing has stopped. By providing chest compressions and rescue breaths, CPR helps maintain blood flow to vital organs, giving the person a better chance of survival until medical help arrives.

For healthcare professionals, CPR certification is essential as part of their responsibility to respond to emergencies quickly and effectively. However, CPR is also crucial for everyday individuals, as sudden cardiac arrest can happen at any time and to anyone. Having CPR knowledge can mean the difference between life and death in critical situations.

This article serves as a step-by-step guide to help you understand how to obtain CPR certification, covering the process, requirements, and key benefits of becoming certified. Whether you’re in the healthcare field or simply want to be prepared, learning CPR is a valuable skill that can save lives. If you’ve ever wondered how to become an EMT, Unitek provides the resources and guidance you need to get started on your career path. Let’s take a closer look at how to get CPR certified.

What Is CPR Certification?

CPR certification is an official recognition that an individual has successfully completed a CPR training course, demonstrating their ability to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation effectively in emergency situations. The certification typically involves both theoretical learning and hands-on practice, focusing on chest compressions, rescue breaths, and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) if available. It ensures that the individual is capable of responding to life-threatening situations where CPR is needed.

The Importance of CPR Certification

For personal preparedness, CPR certification provides the confidence and skills to act decisively in emergencies, potentially saving a life. Knowing CPR can help individuals feel empowered to step in when someone is in distress, whether at home, work, or in public places.

For professional requirements, many healthcare providers and emergency responders (e.g., doctors, nurses, EMTs) are required to maintain current CPR certification. Additionally, certain job roles in schools, daycare centers, gyms, and sports teams may also require employees to be CPR certified to ensure safety in case of an emergency.

Common Scenarios Where CPR Skills Are Invaluable

1. Cardiac Arrest: Sudden cardiac arrest can occur without warning, often caused by a heart attack or electrical disturbances in the heart. In such cases, CPR can keep blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs, providing the person with a greater chance of survival until professional medical help arrives.
2. Drowning Incidents: Drowning can lead to a lack of oxygen in the body, and CPR is essential for restoring breathing and circulation. Administering CPR immediately after a drowning incident increases the chances of survival.
3. Choking: If someone is choking and unable to breathe, CPR can help clear the airway and restart their breathing.
4. Trauma or Injury: In situations such as severe accidents, where breathing or circulation is compromised, CPR can be crucial to stabilize the individual until medical professionals arrive.

CPR Certification in the Workplace

Many jobs, particularly those in healthcare, education, and safety, require CPR certification as part of their qualifications. For example:

• EMTs and Paramedics: These professionals are expected to be CPR certified to respond to emergencies and save lives in critical situations.
• Nurses and Healthcare Providers: CPR certification is mandatory for nurses, doctors, and other healthcare workers to ensure they can handle life-threatening emergencies in medical settings.
• Teachers and School Personnel: Schools and childcare centers often require staff to be CPR certified to protect students, especially when supervising children who may be at risk for accidents.
• Fitness Trainers and Coaches: Given the physical activity involved, fitness trainers and coaches are also commonly required to be CPR certified in case of exercise-related emergencies.

Impact of CPR on Survival Rates

The importance of CPR is underscored by the significant impact it has on survival rates. According to the American Heart Association, when CPR is performed immediately after a person goes into cardiac arrest, CPR can double or triple the chance of survival from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Additionally, when an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is used in conjunction with CPR, survival rates increase even further. In fact, according to the Heart Research Institute (HRI), if it is used within the first three to five minutes of a cardiac arrest, it can increase the chance of survival by up to 70 percent. In summary, CPR certification is not just a skill—it’s a lifesaving tool that can give individuals the confidence and ability to act swiftly in emergency situations. Whether at home, in the workplace, or in public, being CPR certified is an essential qualification for many roles and a critical skill that can dramatically improve survival outcomes during a crisis.

How to Get CPR Certified: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Choose a CPR Certification Provider

When pursuing CPR certification, it’s important to choose a reputable and accredited provider to ensure you’re receiving high-quality training. Several well-established organizations offer CPR courses that meet national standards and are recognized by employers. Here are some reputable providers:

• American Heart Association (AHA): A leading provider of CPR training, AHA offers courses for both healthcare professionals and laypeople. Their certification is widely recognized and respected in many industries.
• American Red Cross: Known for its comprehensive CPR courses, the American Red Cross offers in-person and online options. Their certifications are accepted by many employers in healthcare, education, and other sectors.
• National Safety Council (NSC): The NSC offers CPR and first aid training with a focus on both workplace safety and emergency response.
• Local Training Providers | Unitek EMT: Many local institutions and training centers, such as Unitek EMT, offer CPR certification courses. These can provide personalized instruction in smaller settings and may offer additional resources for those seeking certification.

Researching Providers:

When choosing a certification provider, it’s essential to do your research:

• Check Reviews: Look for feedback from previous participants to ensure the quality of instruction and the reliability of the certification. Online reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the learning experience.
• Ensure Accreditation: Verify that the provider is accredited by a recognized organization, ensuring the course meets industry standards and the certification will be valid.
• Compare Course Options: Some providers offer in-person courses, while others offer online or blended learning. Consider the format that best suits your schedule and learning style. Additionally, check the duration of the course and any additional certifications that may be included (e.g., first aid, AED training).

By choosing the right CPR certification provider, you ensure that your training is thorough, reliable, and widely accepted in the workplace. Consider Unitek’s EMT Boot Camp for comprehensive training.

Step 2: Select the Right Type of CPR Certification

When choosing a CPR certification, it’s important to select the one that aligns with your personal or professional needs. CPR courses vary in their focus, from basic techniques for non-professionals to more advanced training for healthcare providers. Below are the main types of CPR certifications available:

Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers

• Target Audience: Healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, EMTs, paramedics, and other first responders.
• Content: This course covers high-quality CPR for adults, children, and infants, as well as techniques for using an AED (Automated External Defibrillator). It includes advanced skills such as providing CPR with the use of airway devices, managing choking emergencies, and recognizing signs of cardiac arrest or respiratory distress.
• Why Choose BLS: If you work in healthcare or any profession where you may be required to respond to medical emergencies, BLS certification is necessary. It is the most comprehensive CPR course and meets the requirements for many medical-related jobs.

CPR for Adults, Children, and Infants

• Target Audience: This course is designed for anyone who wants to learn CPR but does not require the more advanced techniques included in BLS.
• Content: This course teaches basic CPR techniques for adults, children, and infants, focusing on chest compressions, rescue breaths, and recognizing signs of cardiac arrest. It may also include training for handling choking emergencies in these populations.
• Why Choose This Course: Ideal for parents, caregivers, teachers, and anyone interested in knowing how to perform CPR in emergency situations. This is a great option if your focus is on general preparedness for a variety of age groups.

CPR with AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Training

• Target Audience: This certification is for anyone who wants to learn how to use an AED along with basic CPR techniques.
• Content: The course includes basic CPR for adults, children, and infants, and specifically focuses on the use of an AED. It teaches participants how to recognize the signs of sudden cardiac arrest and how to administer shock treatment using an AED to restore normal heart rhythms.
• Why Choose This Course: If you are in a workplace or public environment where an AED is available (e.g., gym, school, office), this training is invaluable. Many organizations require employees to be trained in both CPR and AED use, making this certification beneficial for a wide range of roles.

Choosing the Right Certification:

• Personal Needs: If you’re looking for CPR skills for personal preparedness (e.g., as a parent or caregiver), a basic CPR course covering adults, children, and infants will likely suffice. If you’re in an environment with AEDs, consider adding AED training to your certification.
• Professional Needs: If you work in healthcare or emergency services, you’ll need BLS certification, as it covers more advanced techniques and is required by many employers in the healthcare sector.
• Workplace Requirements: Many workplaces, especially those in the healthcare, education, or fitness sectors, may require CPR with AED certification. If you’re unsure of what your job requires, it’s helpful to check with your employer.

By choosing the right CPR certification, you ensure that you are properly equipped to respond in emergency situations—whether in your personal life or in a professional setting.

Step 3: Complete CPR Training

Once you’ve chosen the right CPR certification and provider, it’s time to dive into the actual training. A typical CPR training course is designed to equip you with the necessary skills to perform CPR effectively in an emergency. Here’s what you can expect during the training.

Hands-on Practice with Mannequins

In any CPR training, hands-on practice is essential. You’ll work with mannequins that simulate real-life scenarios, allowing you to practice your CPR skills safely. During these sessions, you’ll focus on the following:

• Chest Compressions: Learning the correct depth and rate for performing chest compressions, which is crucial for maintaining circulation during cardiac arrest. You’ll be taught how to position your hands, the correct amount of pressure, and the ideal rhythm for delivering compressions. In most cases, the guideline is to press down about 2 inches deep at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
• Rescue Breathing: Practicing how to deliver effective rescue breaths to help oxygenate the body when someone is not breathing. The course will show you how to properly open the airway, pinch the nose, and deliver breaths at the right volume and interval, ensuring that air reaches the lungs.
• AED Usage Training: Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are critical tools that can help restart a person’s heart during cardiac arrest. Most CPR courses include training on how to use an AED. This will involve learning when and how to use the AED effectively. You’ll practice by correctly placing the pads on the chest, where they can detect the heart’s rhythm and deliver a shock if necessary. The course will guide you through the steps of operating the AED, including turning it on, following the voice prompts, and allowing it to analyze the heart’s rhythm.

Training formats

CPR courses are offered in various formats to fit different learning preferences and schedules:

• In-person Classes: These are traditional, instructor-led sessions where you can receive hands-on practice, get feedback, and ask questions. In-person training is ideal if you prefer direct interaction and guidance.
• Online Courses: Many organizations offer online CPR courses that allow you to study the material at your own pace. These courses usually include video lessons and interactive modules. However, while online training is convenient, it often lacks hands-on practice, so a skills session might still be required to complete certification.
• Hybrid Classes: A hybrid model offers a combination of online learning and in-person skills practice. You’ll typically complete theoretical training online and then attend a brief in-person session to demonstrate your CPR skills and receive your certification.

Completing CPR training provides you with the hands-on experience and confidence needed to act effectively in emergency situations. Whether you choose an in-person, online, or hybrid class, make sure the course offers the practice and guidance necessary for you to feel ready to perform CPR and use an AED when needed.

Step 4: Pass the Certification Exam

Once you’ve completed your CPR training, the next step is to pass the certification exam. Most CPR courses require participants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills through both practical and/or written assessments. Here’s what to expect:

1. Practical Exam: The practical exam typically involves performing CPR on mannequins to demonstrate your ability to correctly apply the techniques you’ve learned. You will be asked to:

• • Perform Chest Compressions: Show that you can deliver the right depth and rate of compressions.
  • Administer Rescue Breathing: Correctly perform mouth-to-mouth or mouth-to-mask breathing, ensuring the airway is open and breaths are effective.
  • Use an AED: Properly apply the AED pads, follow the device’s prompts, and ensure you’re performing the necessary steps for defibrillation if required.

In this exam, it’s critical to demonstrate that you can perform the techniques accurately under pressure, as these skills are designed to save lives in real-life emergencies.

2. Written Exam: Depending on the course provider, you may also be required to take a written exam. The written portion will test your understanding of CPR principles, emergency response procedures, and AED usage. Topics may include:

• • Recognizing the signs of cardiac arrest or choking.
  • Knowing the correct ratio of compressions to breaths for adults, children, and infants.
  • Understanding the steps for using an AED properly.
  • Identifying when and how to call for emergency medical assistance.

3. Demonstrating Skills Correctly: Passing both the practical and written exams is essential to earning your CPR certification. It’s important to approach the exam with confidence and ensure that you’ve mastered the skills. Demonstrating proper technique during the practical exam is critical because performing CPR incorrectly can be less effective or even harmful in an emergency.

The certification exam ensures that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform CPR in real-life situations. By passing the exam, you demonstrate your readiness to step in during emergencies and provide life-saving assistance. Take the time to review your skills and study for the written test, as doing so will give you the confidence to succeed and be prepared when it matters most.

Step 5: Obtain and Maintain Your Certification

After successfully completing your CPR training and passing the certification exam, you’ll receive your official CPR certification card, which serves as proof that you are trained and qualified to perform CPR in an emergency.

Receiving Your Certification Card

Upon successful completion of the course and exam, you’ll typically receive your CPR certification card. This card is often issued immediately after the exam, especially for in-person courses, or it may be mailed to you within a few days if you completed an online or hybrid course. The certification card includes:

• Your name
• The course completed (e.g., BLS, CPR with AED)
• The certification date
• The expiration date (usually two years from the issue date)

The card is an important document, so keep it in a safe place and have it accessible for employers or any other verification needs.

Maintaining Your Certification

CPR certifications are not permanent and require recertification to ensure that your skills and knowledge remain up to date. Most CPR certifications are valid for two years from the issue date, after which you’ll need to complete a recertification course. This process typically involves:

• Recertification Classes: You’ll be required to take a short refresher course that focuses on the latest CPR guidelines, updates in AED use, and hands-on practice. Some providers offer online recertification courses, while others require an in-person class.
• Skills Demonstration: During recertification, you may need to demonstrate your skills again to ensure that you can still perform CPR and use an AED correctly.

Why Recertification Is Important

Recertification ensures that your CPR skills are current and that you are familiar with any changes to CPR guidelines, which can evolve based on the latest research. Additionally, staying up to date with your certification ensures that you remain compliant with job requirements and ready to respond effectively in an emergency. Obtaining and maintaining your CPR certification is an ongoing process. After you receive your certification card, be sure to mark the expiration date and stay on top of recertification every two years. By keeping your skills current, you remain ready to step in and save lives when needed most.

How Long Does It Take to Get CPR Certified?

The time it takes to get CPR certified depends on the type of certification you’re pursuing and the format of the course. Here’s a realistic timeline to help you plan.

1. Basic CPR Certification (2–4 hours)

For most basic CPR courses (such as adult, child, and infant CPR), the training typically takes between 2 to 4 hours to complete. This includes both instructional content and hands-on practice. These courses are designed to provide you with the essential skills to perform CPR and use an AED in an emergency.

• • Online Courses: If you choose an online option, the duration will depend on the pace at which you complete the modules. However, it’s generally within the same range of 2 to 4 hours.
  • In-Person or Hybrid Classes: These classes usually follow a set schedule, with in-person training taking about 3–4 hours, while hybrid courses may require less time in person after completing online modules.

2. Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification (4–6 hours)

For healthcare providers or those in more advanced medical fields, BLS certification is required. This course takes longer to complete because it covers more comprehensive techniques, such as advanced airway management, team-based resuscitation, and other emergency response skills.

• • BLS Classes: These courses typically take between 4 to 6 hours to complete, depending on the provider and whether the course is in-person or online.
  • Hands-On Practice: BLS courses also include a significant amount of hands-on practice, which adds to the overall duration.

3. Advanced Certifications (Longer Duration)

If you pursue certifications for specialized CPR skills (e.g., Pediatric Advanced Life Support or Advanced Cardiac Life Support), these courses can take much longer to complete and may span one or two full days. These certifications are generally required for medical professionals in critical care settings. For example, the ACLS Full Course is approximately 15 hours.

Overall, CPR training is a relatively short commitment for the life-saving skills it provides. Whether you’re seeking basic certification or more advanced training, most courses can be completed in a single day, making it easy to get certified and stay prepared for emergencies.

How Much Does CPR Certification Cost?

The cost of CPR certification can vary depending on the course provider, the type of certification, and the location. Here’s a general comparison overview from CPR Select between AHA and Red Cross of what you can expect to pay for different certifications:

Course	Target Audience	Key Skills Taught	Course Format	Approximate Cost (Nationwide)
CPR/AED	General public, workplace responders	– High-quality CPR for adults, children, and infants – Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) – Relief of choking	Instructor-led or blended learning (online + hands-on)	$60 – $100
BLS	Healthcare professionals (e.g., doctors, nurses, EMTs, paramedics)	– High-quality CPR for adults, children, and infants – Use of a bag-mask device – Team dynamics during multi-rescuer resuscitation – Relief of foreign-body airway obstruction	Instructor-led or blended learning (online + hands-on)	$80
ACLS	Advanced healthcare providers (e.g., physicians, advanced practice nurses, paramedics)	– Management of cardiac arrest and peri-arrest conditions – Airway management – Related pharmacology – Effective communication as a member and leader of a resuscitation team	Instructor-led or blended learning (online + hands-on)	$100 – $250

Overall, CPR certification is a relatively affordable investment in your ability to respond to emergencies. Whether you’re getting certified for personal use or as part of a professional requirement, the cost is often outweighed by the value of being prepared to save lives.

Where to Find CPR Certification Near You

Finding a CPR certification course near you is relatively simple, thanks to a variety of options available locally. Here are some effective ways to locate training centers and courses in your area:

• Search Online for “CPR Certification Near Me”: One of the easiest ways to find CPR certification courses is to search online using keywords like “CPR certification near me” or “CPR classes in [your city or state]”. This will return a list of nearby training providers, course options, and locations. Be sure to check reviews from past participants to ensure the quality of the training and also check the provider’s accreditation (such as American Heart Association or American Red Cross) and course availability and schedules.
• Check Community Centers, Hospitals, and Schools: Many local community centers and hospitals, especially those with emergency departments, provide CPR training as part of their community outreach programs. In addition, colleges and universities often offer CPR training as part of their health and wellness programs. Some may even provide discounts for students.
• Contact Providers Like Unitek EMT for Available Courses: If you’re looking for a reputable provider, consider contacting organizations like Unitek EMT, which offer CPR certification courses. They may have multiple locations or even online/hybrid options to fit your schedule.
• Look for National Providers: National organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA), American Red Cross, and National Safety Council (NSC) offer CPR courses at training centers across the country.
• Inquire About Group or On-Site Training: If you have a group of people interested in CPR certification (e.g., employees, sports teams, or students), some providers offer on-site training. This can be more convenient and cost-effective for organizations.

Finding a CPR certification course near you is easy with a bit of online research and checking local institutions. Whether you’re looking for a personal certification or need training for a workplace or group, there are numerous options available to help you get prepared for emergencies. Explore Unitek’s EMT Boot Camp for comprehensive training.

Benefits of CPR Certification

CPR certification provides individuals with the confidence to act swiftly and effectively during emergencies. Knowing the correct techniques for chest compressions, rescue breathing, and using an AED gives certified individuals the assurance that they can make a difference in critical situations. This preparedness can make a life-saving impact during events like cardiac arrest or choking, where immediate action is essential for survival.

For healthcare professionals, EMTs, and other first responders, CPR certification is a key requirement for their job. It ensures they meet the necessary professional standards, comply with workplace safety regulations, and demonstrate their commitment to patient care. Moreover, CPR certification enhances job prospects and career advancement, especially in healthcare settings.

How Unitek EMT Can Help You Get CPR Certified

Unitek EMT provides CPR and BLS emergency response training, offering courses designed to equip individuals with the life-saving skills they need to respond confidently in emergencies. What sets Unitek apart is its commitment to hands-on, immersive training environments. You’ll learn CPR techniques through real-world simulations, using state-of-the-art equipment, and practicing on realistic mannequins. The instructors are experienced professionals in the field, with real-world experience that enhances the learning experience and ensures that students gain practical, applicable skills. Additionally, the program offers flexible scheduling, making it easy for students and professionals to find a course that fits their needs. Whether you’re a busy healthcare worker or someone looking to gain CPR certification for personal reasons, Unitek EMT provides training you need at your convenience.

Visit Unitek EMT today to learn more.

Take the Leap Today and Be the Difference in Someone’s Life

Getting CPR certified is a simple but crucial step in ensuring you’re prepared to handle life-threatening emergencies. By choosing a trusted provider, selecting the right certification course, completing the training, and passing the exam, you will gain the confidence and skills necessary to respond effectively when it matters most. CPR training is vital not only for healthcare professionals but also for anyone who wants to be ready to help loved ones or strangers in critical situations. If you’re interested in furthering your career in emergency medical services, explore tips for success as an EMT, and also discover alternative jobs for EMTs and Paramedics. In addition, learn about the top EMT specialties that could shape your future.