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I once took Red Cross CPR/AED for the Healthcare Professional online. The lecture component was all on the computer, then I had two weeks to get myself to the local Red Cross to do the skills test. Since it was endorsed by the Red Cross itself, I never had a problem when it came to confirming credidentals.
that just doesn't seem safe to me.
I agree. CPR is a skill and one that should be performed well. Besides doing the compressions correctly, demonstrating the use of a BVM should also be expected. While some may already be proficient with the skills of CPR, far too many are not and those may be the ones who might choose to do online programs that have no hands on skills component. Also, those who do not do CPR regularly may forget a few very important details and do need the hands on refresher. Sometimes the easy way out is not always the best when it comes to providing quality care for the patients or your loved ones, especially your children, in an emergency. Not only is CPR a professional certification but also one that will benefit you in your personal life. I strongly feel all parents, regardless of an RN title or not, should be well trained and educated in CPR with hands on skills demonstration for proficiency.
I just renewed my CPR, the brick and mortar fashion. The previous time I did it online without being required to pass a hands on test. The online course was half the price of what I paid this time around. The theory and written tests I took for the online course were much more in depth than the AHA test. Not having a hands on session is probably not adequate in a lot of cases, however, having been a CPR instructor back in the day when we had to run a perfect strip, the AHA practical test was way too lax for my taste. Next time I'll go online again.
Wow, that was back in the day. My first "official" cpr course was the last year a strip was required. "Official" because at the time ARC believed that CPR was too complex for anyone under 16. They also required us to know two other resuscitation methods and to demonstrate one of them.
Online CPR courses are just another change brought to us by technology. One day we may actually use evidence based practice in CPR courses.
epijunky
13 Posts
I recently saw an add for renewing your CPR certification online, and it being widely accepted at a lot of facilities. What are y'alls thoughts about this?