While babies don’t arrive in this would clutching tiny instruction manuals, that doesn’t mean as a new parent you’re off the hook for finding out the basics before that bundle of joy arrives. While most parents worry most about endless feedings and sporadic sleeping, one thing I think a prepared parent should do is learn basic first aid and CPR (cardio pulmonary recitation).
I know it seems frightening to think about having to use CPR on your child, or anyone for that matter. I’ve taken CPR classes many times over the years and every single time I do, it makes me anxious about the possibility of actually having to use it. But at the same time, just knowing the basics will likely allow me to remain calm and in control should the need for me to use my training ever arise.
CPR: Started Immediately and Done Correctly Gives You The Best Chance for Success
There are many injuries that can cause a person to stop breathing. In kids it can be an accident, near-drowning, suffocation, poising, smoke inhalation, electrocution, or even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). But how do you know when CPR is appropriate? The first thing to do is call 911 (999 in the UK) and get help started on the way. The dispatcher can also help you assess the situation and even walk you through the steps of CPR. My husband is an EMT/Firefighter and he’s done CPR many times in his 32+ years on the job. CPR is not always going to work, but if it’s done correctly and immediately, it’s your best bet to restore breathing and circulation in small children. It’s important to get CPR going as fast as possible so that the brain receives oxygen – going too long without i5 can result in brain damage or death. So that means someone on the scene of the accident needs to start the CPR and continue until the emergency medical professionals arrive.
CPR: The Basics and Where to find Classes
There are just three basic parts to CPR: Airway, Breathing and Circulation. It’s not a lot to learn but it is important that you become certified regularly if you have children or work with children. It’s not just to refresh your skills, but it’s also to keep you up-to-date on the changes made to the CPR process. It’s evolved quite a bit since the first time I took a class in 1979 when chest thumps and finger sweeps were the norm. You want to be sure that if you offer assistance, you’re actually helping, and not harming the person. Whether you’re a new parent, parent-to-be, or have had kids for years, now is a great time to learn. Many colleges, universities, and some Fire Departments offer basic first aid and CPR courses. You can find classes provided by the American Heart Association. They have instructor led and hands-on classes as well as online classes. Find a American Heart Association Red Cross Class on their Find a CPR Course page. First aid and CPR training is something every person benefits from. You’ll be able to use your new skills save your child’s life, or someone else. Heck, you could even save mine or someone I love. Now that you know why learning CPR is so important, would you make the 3 hour commitment to save lives? Are you CPR certified?
I need a refresher. I took a CPR class a year ago and don’t feel comfortable. As a dad of three girls and youth soccer coach, it’s so crucial not only to know – but to feel comfortable you can execute it!
You can do a refresher course right online at the American Heart Association! I was talking to my husband last night about how much CPR has changed. I was surprised to find out that they use a metronome while doing it and they switch out every 2 minutes. They’ve done studies that say even trained people like firefighters can only do CPR effectively for 2 minutes. That’s a staggering statistic. So get trained, you may need to help out on the field or anywhere you’re hanging with the kids. Thanks for being someone who cares!