There is no reason a busy schedule should keep you from enrolling in a CPR course. CPR certification, as well as recertification, is now available online and designed for those that do not have the time to take a course in a classroom.

Any individual can get certified, not just those that work in careers that require a CPR certification. This online alternative to traditional classes is rapidly growing in popularity and becoming the ideal way to get certified. After reading this article, you will be able to decide whether an online CPR certification is for you, and if so, how to get started.

Getting Your CPR Certification Online

First off, online CPR certification is convenient because it allows you to study the material on your own time. Online courses offer various training modules with many illustrative videos to ensure that students learn and retain the core techniques of CPR.

You can get your CPR certification 100% online. However, you may want to choose a course that offers a practical skill evaluation. Many courses offer a blended approach, which means that after completing the CPR training online, you can schedule an appointment with an instructor to learn the hands-on technique for applying CPR. The hands-on techniques are practiced on a mannequin that provides you with hands-on experience.

Once you have completed the curriculum, you are then ready to take your CPR certification test. The exam is taken online from the comfort of your home. Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will have the option to have your practical skills evaluated by an instructor. When you pass the online written test (and hands-on test, if you selected that option), you will then receive your CPR certification and card.

Choosing an Online CPR Certification Provider

CPR Certification Card from an Online Course
CPR Certification Card from an Online Course

It is important to realize that many online CPR course providers that sound legitimate, but you must choose carefully.

You must be aware that certificates that are awarded through these programs may or may not be accepted by your employer. When you do select an online course, be sure to verify the course’s credentials. You will want to verify that the curriculum follows the American Heart Association guidelines.

If you are taking the course as an employment requirement, it is recommended to choose a program that is backed by a guarantee that your employer will accept the certification.

If a course offers a lifetime certificate, then definitely steer clear, as any legitimate certification must be renewed every one or two years. Another red flag is websites that don’t require any testing and allow you to print your CPR card as soon as you’ve paid. Please don’t waste your money or effort with companies like that, as those certifications won’t be worth more than the paper they were printed on.

Getting your CPR certification through an online course is the most time-efficient way to get certified. Just make sure to choose your provider wisely.

What to Expect from an Online Class

With CPR training you can expect that you will learn the techniques and skills to save lives in the event of a cardiac arrest. You will receive step-by-step instructions on theory and techniques as well as an overview of cardiovascular diseases and strokes. A quality online learning program will include a combination of videos, reading material, quizzes, and other learning tools.

By getting your CPR certification online you will always have access to the learning materials, so you will be able to review any portion of your syllabus if you need a refresher. Another benefit to getting certified online is that they will automatically remind you to renew before your certification expires.

The American Heart Association states that 92% of cardiac arrest victims do not make it to the hospital. When you learn CPR, you don’t have to sit on the sidelines hopelessly when a victim suffers from cardiac arrest. Knowing CPR gives victims the window of opportunity they need while waiting for the medical response team.

Now, with the availability of CPR certification online, there is no reason a busy schedule should keep you from gaining the knowledge and skill to save a life.

How to Get Started: Our Recommended Online CPR Certification Provider

We’ve done our research of various online CPR certification providers to find the best possible option available. At this time, we recommend ProCPR.org. All their classes follow the American Heart Association guidelines and have certified over 600,000 professionals. They are the only certifying body that we found to be nationally recognized. If you need certification for a job requirement, they are a safe option, as they guarantee that your employer will accept their certification.

The courses and exams are offered for free, and you only pay when you are fully satisfied and are ready to order your nationally recognized CPR certification card. Visit ProCPR.org to learn more.