AED & CPR Training Plan

AEDs and rescue equipment are only as effective as the people trained to use them. Quality training and continued responder practice are essential to AED program success.

At a minimum, an AED program training plan should address the following:

• Selection of responders
• Initial Training
• Recurring Training

Selection of Responders

AED program responders come from all walks of life, and do not necessarily require any particular background. At a minimum, responders should have a desire to help others. Responders should be able-bodied, and capable of physically performing the skills of CPR.

Carefully consider your Site Survey, and select individuals that are likely to be regularly present and able to respond when an emergency arises. Consider all hours of operation of your organization, and different "shifts" of people that may be present. Some organizations require multiple groups of responders to be trained.

Initial Training

Most organizations conduct a training program for AED responders that teaches Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and AED use. Additional modules, such as infant/child CPR, and First Aid may be considered, depending on your organization's needs. Completion of most training programs results in a one or two certification for responders. Some states require current certification as a condition of AED use.

There are a variety of training options for AED program responders, from a variety of sources. Most training courses are traditional instructor-led classes that are conducted at your organization. Where this is not practical, some self-guided training programs may be used. Whenever possible, responders should have the opportunity to practice the use of the exact AED model owned by their organization.

Although a variety of organizations purport to offer CPR and AED training programs, American Heart Association training programs are widely regarded at the "gold standard" of emergency care training. The American Heart Association is the scientific body that routinely reviews the science of resuscitation and sets the generally accepted professional standards for emergency cardiovascular care in the United States. Their training programs closely follow these guidelines and reflect the latest in resuscitation science. AED Direct is proud to offer only offers genuine American Heart Association training programs to clients.

Recurring Training

Studies have shown that resuscitation skills decline precipitously in as little as six months. As with any skill, practice makes perfect. It is essential that responders practice skills regularly to remain proficient, and confident in their skills. At a minimum, responders should repeat (or re-certify) their training every one to two years as recommended by the training organization. Additionally, periodic skill refreshers, or response "drills" are an effective way to keep responder skills sharp.