What Do I Need to Bring to a CPR Class?

Knowing what to expect from a CPR class and how to prepare will help you make the most of the learning opportunity. Luckily, the list of essentials isn’t that long.

One of the main questions often asked by those enrolled in CPR classes is what should be brought to the venue. Are any special preparations and supplies required? If so, how do online CPR classes work and can one expect the same level of knowledge from the completion of a remote program?

All of these inquiries are important and valid. We’ll take a look at the CPR class checklist and whether students have to prep anything before attending.

Getting Ready for a CPR Class

Learning opportunities involve some level of anticipation. Students want to know what to expect and how to get ready. First aid and CPR classes are far from an exception.

The good news is that specific preparations aren’t required in advance. Going over the course curriculum may be a good idea. This way, you’ll know what to anticipate and what specific topics will be covered during that particular day.

It’s also important to point out that you don’t need to have any knowledge of first aid or CPR before enrolling. Most classes, especially those meeting American Heart Association (AHA) and Red Cross requirements, cover everything. They start with absolute basics and once these are covered, the program can move on to more specialized topics and niche kinds of knowledge.

A final thing you need to understand is that a test will occur before getting your certificate. Tests cover all of the topics discussed in the program. Still, this isn’t something you should worry about too much. If you go over course materials carefully and you memorize the important aspects of administering CPR and/or first aid, you’ll face no difficulties acing the test.

Local CPR classes are usually administered in person, in a classroom-like setting. There will be an instructor, some demonstrations and depending on the topic – some student participation.

Demonstration tools are provided by the entity delivering the class. The same applies to any other materials or supplies that will be used to present a certain technique.

You don’t need to bring anything particular to a CPR class. To make the most of classes for CPR, just focus on a few essentials.

For a start, make sure that you’re wearing comfortable shoes and clothes. These will be required to participate in demonstrations and exercises.

A notebook and a pen are the other important supplies. While course materials will be provided, you’ll probably want to draft some additional notes while the instructor is making a demonstration. Many people find it easier to memorize and learn by going over their own notes. Alternatively, you can add remarks to the course materials being provided.

Still, you may have some questions about what to bring and how to prepare for the CPR class. When in doubt, get in touch with the instructor in advance. There could be some course-specific tips and suggestions that will help you make the most of the opportunity.

How About Online CPR Classes?

Now, you may be wondering how online CPR classes work. After all, the classroom demonstrations are important to drive a particular skill home, aren’t they?

At the same time, there’s been a proliferation of online CPR learning opportunities. Some of those offer better quality than others and can be considered good enough for health professionals. How can such remote classes guarantee the same kind of knowledge as in-person learning opportunities?

The answer is simple. New technologies make it very easy to get detailed demonstrations online.

CPR classes like the ones offered by the American CPR Institute have video components that present key skills. For example, there are video demonstrations on performing chest compressions, face shield demonstration, CPR face mask demonstration and others.

If you’re about to enroll in an online first aid and CPR class, don’t hesitate to inquire about video demos. These can be especially beneficial as technique can be difficult to grasp by going through text alone.