If you're interested in working in the medical field, you must have CPR and first aid training. Others simply want to learn a new skill that could possibly help them save someone's life. Knowing how to perform CPR and apply proper first aid is an invaluable thing to know, and can often mean the difference between life and death.

Basics

In order to understand how to use first aid properly, you must know the basic methods to help alleviate a person's pain as well as ensure you are avoiding infection. First aid treatment is usually needed for situations like burns, bruises, cuts, or even broken bones. In some cases, the need for more intense first aid might be utilized such as giving CPR or using a defibrillator. Assessing the situation first and then determining if there is present danger should be the first step in first aid in order to ensure no one else will be hurt.

Once you've confirmed there are no current dangers, assessing the patient is the next step. Find out what happened and check to see if they are responsive. Make sure their airway is clear and they are breathing at a normal rate. If the patient is talking to you and can explain the problem, it is time to begin taking decisive action. Depending on the severity of the injury, you may need to call for emergency medical assistance in order to transport the patient to the hospital. Small triage treatments like stopping bleeding or assisting with burns can help make the patient more comfortable until help arrives.

Getting Certified

There are many ways you can become certified in both CPR and first aid. Many local organizations provide classes where you can learn how to perform first aid and will offer you a certification card that you should carry with you. The Red Cross and many local hospitals also offer courses for people who are interested in learning first aid. There is no age limit when it comes to learning these important skills, so children can also attend in order to be better prepared.

Most first aid courses can last anywhere from several hours to a few days' worth of sessions. The instructor will explain how to treat a wide array of situations and walk students through the process. Hands on training, from a center like Southwest Florida Safety Council Inc, should also be provided so you can put what you've learned into practice. Understanding how to apply these skills in a real life setting are things you will know throughout your life and can possibly help save someone in a serious situation.