If you have been thinking of going to CPR classes you might be worried that they are a waste of time. After all some people believe you can learn the same information by watching a video on YouTube. But watching a video whether it is on YouTube or any other medium will only give you an idea of the theory behind cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The video will not tell you whether your skills are good, whether you have grasped the proper technique or whether you are actually qualified to potentially save a life.

So yes you should attend CPR classes. You can learn the theory online via the American Heart Association website if you cannot find the time to attend a traditional class. But when you pass the initial online theory test you will not get your certificate. Some people don’t need or want CPR certification so this may not be an issue to you but to those that do, you will have to attend a skills practice and assessment class. This will take place at your local AHA training center. The cost of the online course does not include the cost of these classes so you need to take that into account in your budgeting.

Why is it so important to test your skills? Well you wouldn’t try to drive a car without first have some practical lessons would you? Why would saving a life be any different? Ok chest compression only CPR isn’t as difficult perhaps as driving a car but you will not know whether you are going to the right depth or fast enough if your skills aren’t assessed. These are the two most common mistakes made when bystanders attempt a rescue. Could these mistakes contribute to someone dying? Perhaps. Nobody knows for sure as people die even when the fully trained medics do cardiopulmonary resuscitation. But surely if you are going to learn how to perform a skill you want to make sure you know how to do it properly. Particularly when you consider your certification will last for two years and the maximum length of time it will take to qualify when you go to CPR classes is about four hours.

The other benefit of attending classes is that the AHA or Red Cross trained instructor will correct any mistakes you are making prior to you taking your skills assessment test so you have a better chance of passing your CPR certification.