Typically, organizations that provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid training also provide defibrillator training. As such, the easiest way for you to obtain defibrillator training may be to contact one of these organizations. You may then choose a class from a preset list and enroll by paying the required fee and completing a registration form. In most cases, you will attend class with several other people, demonstrate the techniques you learn for the instructor’s evaluation, and receive a certificate of mastery at the end of the course.
Often, defibrillator training is combined with CPR and first aid training; this gives you an opportunity to learn CPR, defibrillator use, and first aid in one course. Course content may vary, but you will typically learn the purpose of a defibrillator and how to use one in an emergency. You will likely learn how to perform CPR on babies, children, and adults as well. You may also learn such things as how to help someone who is choking, how to recognize the signs of a heart attack or stroke, and how to support a person’s health and safety while you wait for other medical help. Additionally, such a course may provide information about the legalities of using a defibrillator or performing CPR.
If you prefer not to travel to an instructor’s location for defibrillator training, you may have another option. If you can organize a group of people who are interested in training, you may arrange to have an instructor teach the class on your site. In such a case, an instructor may offer a total price to train the entire group. You may then divide this total by the number of people who will attend to determine the price per person. Some instructors may also offer private lessons, but this is often a more expensive option.
You may also find opportunities to secure defibrillator training through a group, association, or club. In some cases, a club or association will arrange training for its members at a discounted rate. You may also find this type of training offered through a workplace. Additionally, you may find defibrillator training opportunities through a community college, vocational school, or even a community center.
As you consider defibrillator training options, you may find that some courses are offered online. Many health experts agree, however, that it is important to receive hands-on defibrillator training. If you do enroll in an online program, it is usually critical to choose one that has a hand-on practice component led by an experienced instructor.
