Las Vegas CPR has some of the best CPR training programs you will find in the US. There are two kinds of CPR training – Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support. The first program is available to both laymen and healthcare providers (HCPs), while the second kind is only for HCPs. CPR training is meant to certify rescuers who will be able to handle a cardiovascular emergency before and after a victim has been given medical attention.
certificates for CPR training programs in Las Vegas
Training certificates from Las Vegas CPR expire after 24 months, in accordance with the guidelines from the American Heart Association (AHA). Rescuers who want to renew their credenetials can sign up for a re-certification program. Only rescuers whose certificates have not yet expired qualify for re-certification. In the case that a rescuer’s credentials have expire, he or she will have to retake the program. Las Vegas CPR does not honor expired certification.
BLS vs ALS training
Basic Life Support is focused on skill development of CPR skills before the victim receives medical attention. Programs for BLS training teaches students how to perform chest compressions, give rescue breaths, and use a defibrillator. Trainees are also introduced to basic first aid and the typical causes of cardiac arrest.
Advanced Life Support teaches trainees complete medical management of cardiac arrest. Trainees are still taught the basics but more focus is placed on how CPR is performed in a clinical setting. Pharmacology, adult and pediatric, is part of the the ALS programs, as well as the proper use of equipment such as bag valve masks.
BLS programs
- Heartsaver CPR – This is a basic CPR program for the general public. It runs for four hours, and has an optional exam at the end that trainees can take to get certified. The curriculum teaches one-person CPR, basic first aid, and defibrillation to trainees.
- Heartsaver CPR (C) – This is a basic CPR program that tailors the basic curriculum for healthcare providers. It runs longer, for 4.5 hours, with a mandatory skill test and written exam that students need to pass to get certified.
- Basic Life Support – This is also an HCP program that runs for 4.5 hours. The curriculum focuses on both one-person and two-person CPR rescue, on top of basic first aid and defibrillation. A mandatory skills and written test is also given at the end of the program. (Re-certification – 4 hours)
ALS programs
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support – This is the longest program offered by Las Vegas CPR. It runs for 16 hours over a 2-day course, teaching CPR management for adult victims. Adult pharmacology and assessment are part of ACLS training, as well as how to read and interpret ECG readings. (Re-certification – 5-6 hours)
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support – Shorter than ACLS by two hours, PALS is 14 hours long and completed over 2 days as well. The curriculum focuses on the medical management of cardiac arrest in pediatric victims. CPR is very different for infants and younger children, especially pharmacological dosing. Pediatric assessment is also part of PALS training. (Re-certification – 6-8 hours)