How Long Does A CPR Class Take?

September 4, 2023 |

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique that can mean the difference between life and death in critical situations. Learning how to perform CPR is a valuable skill that everyone should consider acquiring, as it can empower individuals to respond effectively during emergencies. If you’re wondering about the time commitment required for a CPR class, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of CPR courses available and delve into the varying durations they encompass. Whether you’re a busy professional or a concerned parent, understanding the time involved in CPR training can help you make an informed decision about which course suits your schedule and needs.

Understanding the Importance of CPR Training

Before delving into the duration of CPR classes, it’s essential to grasp why CPR training is crucial. CPR is a technique that combines chest compressions and rescue breaths to maintain blood circulation and oxygen flow in a person’s body when their heart and breathing have stopped. It is most commonly used during cardiac arrests, drowning incidents, choking, and other life-threatening situations. Rapid and proper CPR administration can significantly increase a person’s chances of survival until professional medical help arrives.

Types of CPR Courses

CPR training is offered in various formats, catering to different levels of expertise and specific audiences. The duration of a CPR class often depends on the type of course you choose. Here are the primary types of CPR courses:

Basic CPR

Basic CPR courses are designed for individuals who want to learn the fundamental techniques of CPR and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED). These courses are typically shorter in duration, making them suitable for those with time constraints. Basic CPR classes are often chosen by laypeople, including parents, caregivers, and individuals who want to be prepared to assist in emergencies.

CPR and First Aid

CPR and first aid courses provide comprehensive training in both CPR techniques and basic first aid skills. These courses are slightly longer in duration compared to basic CPR classes. They are well-suited for individuals who want to acquire a broader skill set to handle various emergency situations effectively.

Professional Rescuer CPR

Professional rescuer CPR courses are intended for healthcare providers, lifeguards, and other professionals in roles that require a deeper understanding of CPR techniques. These courses delve into more advanced topics and may cover topics such as two-rescuer CPR and specialized rescue techniques. Due to the advanced content, professional rescuer CPR courses usually have a longer duration.

Online CPR Courses

With the advent of technology, online CPR courses have become increasingly popular. These courses offer the flexibility of learning at your own pace and are often divided into modules. While the total duration can vary, online CPR courses generally require several hours to complete. However, it’s important to note that hands-on practice on a mannequin is a crucial aspect of effective CPR training, and some online courses might require an in-person skills evaluation.

Factors Influencing CPR Class Duration

The duration of a CPR class can be influenced by several factors, including:

Course Type and Content

As mentioned earlier, the type of CPR course you choose plays a significant role in determining its duration. Basic CPR courses will generally be shorter, while more comprehensive courses that cover both CPR and first aid will naturally take more time. Similarly, professional rescuer CPR courses with advanced content will have a longer duration.

Certification Level

Some CPR courses offer certification upon completion, which might require additional time for testing and evaluation. Certification adds value to your CPR skills, especially if you’re pursuing a career in healthcare or a related field.

Teaching Format

The teaching format can also impact the duration of a CPR class. In-person, hands-on training sessions typically involve real-time demonstrations, practice sessions, and discussions. These classes might require more time compared to online courses, where participants can learn at their own pace and convenience.

Duration Breakdown of Common CPR Courses

While the exact duration can vary from one training provider to another, here’s a general breakdown of the time you can expect to spend on common CPR courses:

Basic CPR

Basic CPR courses usually span about 2 to 3 hours. These sessions focus on teaching participants how to recognize emergencies, perform hands-on CPR, and use an AED. The concise nature of basic CPR classes makes them suitable for individuals with busy schedules.

CPR and First Aid

Combining CPR and first aid training, this course is more comprehensive and typically lasts around 4 to 6 hours. Participants learn CPR techniques along with basic first aid skills like wound care, bandaging, and managing medical emergencies.

Professional Rescuer CPR

Professional rescuer CPR courses are in-depth and can last anywhere from 6 to 8 hours or more, depending on the curriculum. These courses are tailored to healthcare providers and others in similar roles, covering advanced CPR techniques and rescue procedures.

Online CPR Courses

The duration of online CPR courses varies widely. Some online courses can be completed in as little as 1 to 2 hours, while more extensive ones might require 4 to 6 hours or more. Keep in mind that for effective learning, hands-on practice is crucial, and some online courses might have in-person skill evaluation components.