Heartsaver CPR & AED Basics

Each year, thousands of Americans who fall victim to a heart attack die, simply because those around them do not know how to properly administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or how to use an automatic external defibrillator (AED). The American Heart Association, through its Heartsaver CPR and Heartsaver AED classes, can teach non-medical professionals the skills they need to save a life.

Who Takes the Course

• Both Heartsaver CPR and Heartsaver AED courses are designed for members of the public who have no formal medical training and target further those who may be called upon to respond to an emergency while at work. The courses take approximately four hours to complete, and participants are required to take both a written and practical test. At the end of each class, participants are given a card that proves completion of the course in question and remains in effect for two years.

Heartsaver CPR

• Taught by an American Heart Association certified professional, the Heartsaver CPR course teaches students that the first thing they should do if someone is having a heart attack is to call 911. The course also instructs participants in the proper way to breathe for a victim and how to apply chest compressions by using two breaths administered mouth-to-mouth followed by 30 chest compressions until help arrives.

Heartsaver AED

• The Heartsaver AED course is also taught by an American Heart Association professional.This course instructs participants the proper way to use an automatic external defibrillator. It's important to note that all AEDs licensed to be used in the United States are voice activated. The machine determines automatically if a shock is necessary upon use.