Working as an Independnet CPR/First Aid Instructor

[MikeyBSN]

Hi, I have been an ED and Trauma nurse for a few years now. I started as a first responder when I was a teenager, then obtained my EMT. In addition to my current job, I was considering doing some independent work as a contractor. I realize that I can get a CPR and First Aid instructor certificate from the ARC or AHA. However, I don't really want to "work for" either organization. I know that OSHA requires employers to train their employees in first aid (with some exceptions), blood-borne pathogens (in some cases) and they recommend CPR. I was more interested in going to small farms and other industries to offer their employees CPR or first aid classes. I suppose I could buy my own "annie" and other materials. Does anyone have any information on this? Do you know if you can work through the AHA, yet be more independent? If I develop a first aid program that meets the OSHA standards, can I tell employers that my program would satisfy the standards? Any information or insight on this would be helpful. Thanks.

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

Sure - this is entirely possible. I know of several people who make money as independent instructors.

You will need to hook up with a Community Training Center in order to function as an AHA instructor. That's their structure. No one works directly for AHA. They just certify instructors & accredit the CTCs. The CTC will have a set of standardd that you have to meet, including have Liability Insurance and equipment. You will have to follow their established processes for organizing your classes, obtaining cards, etc. Your CTC will proabably also be able to provide you with the name of places to buy your equipment.

You may want to consider marketing your services to Churches, civic groups and community centers. In my part of the country, we have several mega churches that have their own CPR, first aid training, etc. I would also suggest contacting local nursing agencies & travel nurse companies. Their folks need to get certified, but it's difficult to find classes.

Be sure to price your services accordingly - remember that student:teacher ratios are set by AHA so you can't simply enroll more people to increase your income.

Good Luck!!

[jenn_nurse]

Also check out ashinstitute.org They are the American Safety and Health Institute and you can become an independent contractor through them. I know several employers who use that type of service for training their employees.