CPR Training: Save a Life & Understand the Benefits

CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a technique for helping an individual whose heart has stopped due to a heart attack or other incident. Although used by medical professionals, nonprofessionals can learn and apply CPR, too. CPR can help the stricken person survive until medical help arrives.

Using CPR

• If you have CPR training, you can save a life. You are not obliged legally to help a victim, and, if the victim you help does not survive, you cannot be sued. Having the training allows you to help in an emergency situation. When CPR is used by a non-medical person, it is usually for a friend or relative, although you may also be able to help a stranger.

CPR Class Topics

• While you are learning CPR, you can also learn about some aspects of physiology, heart function and heart attack symptoms. Many CPR classes include instruction in the Heimlich maneuver, which will show you how to help someone who is choking.

Jobs Requiring CPR

• Knowing CPR may help you in your job. Certain jobs require CPR, and others will give you credit for taking a class. If you work in the medical field, law enforcement, around older people, in any large corporation or in fitness and exercise, knowing CPR can help you deal with an emergency.