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Making the decision to get CPR Certified should not be an added reward or benefit. Instead, everyone should value life equally, choosing to complete a course of study and learning how to help those in severe distress. In addition, changing education options for completing a CPR course make getting your CPR Certification easier than ever, and there are simply not enough reasons why a person should forgo obtaining both it and a First Aid Certification.

Of course, figuring out which course to take, where to sign up and what you need to do can be troublesome, so does that wish to obtain their certification should follow this guide.

Who Needs First Aid and CPR Certification

Why does someone decide to take his CPR? This question varies by individual, profession and preference. Some careers require CPR Certification of staff members, such as the health industry. Since those in health facilities may have a pre-existing condition or other medical element that makes them more likely to suffer a cardiac arrest, all staff members within a facility are usually required to complete training. Meanwhile, other careers are starting to embrace mandatory CPR training.

For example, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends employers with a higher than likely chance of injury, trauma or accident offer and provide CPR and First Aid Certification training to employees. In general, the recommendation is always to have at least one trained staff member on site. However, specific businesses, such as those with a higher risk of trauma or encountering cardiac arrest, may be subject to state laws mandating CPR Certification. Now, OSHA stops short of making it a requirement, so the push to increase the number of CPR trained individuals must begin with everyday citizens and workers across all industries.

CPR training mandates have been enacted for schools, daycare centers and other facilities. Even business settings, which are not routinely involved in emergency situations, have also taken note of the need to understand the value of rapid response in providing life-saving support to those in need in the wake of an increased prevalence of active shooter scenarios. Everyone that is capable and physically able to perform chest compressions, direct another individual through administration of CPR or even contact EMS should get CPR Certified and obtain a first aid and CPR Certification.

Course Options for Those in Need of Certification

unconscious man in warehouse There was a time when obtaining a CPR Certification was a difficult process. Someone in need of obtaining such certification would need to find an appropriate training center, contacted instructor, determine when the course will be held, sign up for the course, pay for the course and attend a four-hour session. While this model worked great for years, it had an adverse effect on the schedules of working-class people and seemed less important. However, technology has advanced the way people think about education, and today, students have multiple options for completing a course, including:

In-person instruction, comparable to a traditionally taught CPR class. However, most modern classes will use some form of technology in the classroom to help people understand how to respond, voice their questions and more.
Online courses teach CPR and first aid skills through an entirely virtual environment. This eliminates any need to visit a physical classroom, and even while some states and organizations may require the completion of an in-person session, the pre-eminent CPR authority, the American Heart Association, shows up in multiple results from a Google Search. This supports the use of online CPR Certification programs as an alternative to traditional courses.
Blended courses combine the benefits of online instruction with an in-person training scenario. For example, students may complete bookwork and go through class lessons online, but they may also complete skills practice on manikins during an in-person session.

Key Considerations When Selecting a Course

Before choosing a First Aid and CPR Certification course, prospective students should take a few considerations that will affect the success and enjoyment of the course. These considerations are not always necessary, but they will help students separate legitimate course providers from those with malicious intent. Yes, scams do exist, and each interested person assumes the risk for finding and completing an accredited CPR course. To streamline your search and choose the best-suited course for your needs, take the following considerations into account:

1. Scheduling

Ease in scheduling remains one of the top concerns when selecting a CPR Certification course provider. With traditional courses, participants would need to take time out of their personal schedules to attend a class. Yet, virtual courses can be completed at the convenience of the participant, avoiding conflicts within a person’s schedule and with less physical strain than an in-person course.

2. Completion in One Sitting

Comparable to the benefits of scheduling, and online CPR course is not stringent on completion in one setting. For example, a traditional course may require up to four hours in the same room completing coursework. While this method may work for many people, it can be difficult for those with anxiety or other personal challenges to complete. For those with such needs, breaking a class up into digestible bits may improve knowledge retention and lessen the stress of completing a class.

3. Geographic Limitations

Geographic limitations are another issue inherent when choosing a class. Traditional classes will force the issue of distance and location to the forefront of the decision. Meanwhile, online and blended classes can take advantage of technology and the Internet to bring the course to each participant. This is an essential reason why those in remote areas or regions subject to epidemics and disasters may opt to participate in an online class. The same principle applies to completing a First Aid Certification course.

4. Course Resources and Materials

Depending on how a person learns, such as through audio or visual cues, also influences the efficacy of the course. Traditional courses will involve some written work, but as technology has progressed, coursework may also be completed on various devices. In the case of online courses, all skills and reviews can be completed online. This may include the proper application of an AED through multimedia, including videos, interactive tutorials and online quizzes.

5. Facility-Specific Requirements for Completing a Company-Owned and -Operated Course

While major organizations may recognize the authority and validity of online CPR, BLS, AED and first aid training programs, individual facilities still have the ultimate right to set standards and requirements for certification. In other words, participants in an online class may also need to participate in an in-person training program at a given facility. This case may apply primarily to health facilities that implement more frequent or stringent training and education requirements.

6. BLS and AED Inclusive CPR Courses

The type of CPR class further influences the decision when selecting a provider. CPR is a catch-all term for all training programs, but multiple types of CPR exist. CPR may be specific to pediatric patients, adolescents and the elderly. Meanwhile, basic CPR focuses solely on chest compressions and rescue brats. Those in the health industry may need a CPR class that includes the application and use of an AED, as well as BLS skills.

7. Accredited by Governing Organizations

Identifying the accreditation of a course provider should be a top priority as well. Different organizations govern the CPR and training requirements for each workplace or organization. For example, OSHA may govern first aid requirements for manufacturers and restaurants. Meanwhile, the joint commission oversees training requirements and education for most hospitals. The list is endless, including the various boards of nursing from individual states and even international organizations.

8. Accepted by Your Employer

Another factor in selecting a class carries similarities between both accreditation and employer specific requirements. As noted previously, an individual employer has the right to require workers complete additional training requirements. This may include the completion of an in-person program to assess clinical skills and practice. For instance, a nurse educator could require all employees complete additional training that goes beyond the standard requirements for CPR Certification. Moreover, the application of mock drills, online continuing education and review of past materials fall under this point.

9. Additional Resources for Later Review or Ability to Renew Certification at a Lower Cost

The final key consideration carries the most important aspect of taking any CPR course. What are the requirements for the course in terms of retaking the exam, maintaining certification after expiration, cost and ability to review course materials after completion? Online courses may also offer additional media and resources to ensure participants stay in line with the latest updates and news to save lives.

For example, the ongoing updates to the CPR, BLS and ACLS algorithms may be publicized as journal articles, as shown in a prior post here. A participant may wish to participate in advanced training simulations, such as ACLS Megacodes, available here.

What to Bring to the Class

Traditional logic dictates participants should bring a pen and paper. While this may not have changed in some classes, technology offers an alternative. Course participants may be asked to participate in course objectives and short quizzes via a smartphone, tablet or even a computer. Students may also wish to bring a pad or other object to help them practice on a mannequin. Obviously, online-only participants do not have CPR mannequins lying around, but it is quite easy to make one from home.

Place a 2-liter, empty water bottle inside a t-shirt. Add extra, crumpled newspaper around the bottle in the shirt. Then, using rubber bands, tie off the cuffs and the bottom of the shirt. This creates a simple mannequin to practice the sensation of pushing down and feeling the chest give way during compressions.

Students that opt to take an online-only course also have discretion over what they use to take notes, review course materials and more. In a sense, they have complete freedom over their own level of involvement and engagement with the course. So, there is not a need to bring any item to the proverbial table.

Additional Benefits of Completing Your CPR and First Aid Certification

Completing a CPR class comes with additional benefits beyond helping someone live through cardiac arrest. These benefits include:

Access to additional employment opportunities that require CPR Certification, but they stop short of requiring an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. This is a perfect example of how the health industry functions and employs many more people than those that have attended a lengthy vocational program or completed a degree, reports BLS.Gov.
Improved deploy ability for workers and volunteers that wish to work in multiple facilities or provide relief to areas stricken with poverty, natural disasters and man-made epidemics.
Providing an immediate resource to family members, friends and total strangers during recreational activities, ranging from spending an afternoon at the park to attending a concert in the late evening.
Learning how the cardiovascular system functions in conjunction with the respiratory system, a complex topic for students that have yet to complete health sciences’ education courses.
Better understanding of how to approach medical emergencies and needs in your own life, including learning to recognize the symptoms of major health problems, including stroke, cardiac arrest and myocardial infarction (also known as a heart attack).

Get CPR Certified With Innovative, On-Your-Time Courses Now

Making the decision to help those in severe medical distress, including cardiac arrest, stroke or another trauma, is only part of the battle. The remainder lies in knowing how to respond to a person’s symptoms, including how to administer rescue breaths, check for a pulse, complete chest compressions with an adequate compression depth, stop hemorrhagic shock, avoid unnecessary injury and more. When someone suffers a trauma or cardiac arrest, time is of the essence.

Every person in the vicinity becomes a responder, and those that complete an accredited training program are in the position to save lives. Instead of putting off obtaining your first aid to certification or completing a CPR and BLS certification class in person, consider an easier alternative. Consider enrolling in an online skills course, such as the one available here. Also, apply the considerations when reviewing available courses. The cheapest option is not always the most realistic or informative program.

Have you ever been involved in the response to someone suffering cardiac arrest or another trauma? If so, share your experiences and how your CPR training, or lack thereof, influenced your behaviors and the outcome. Together, we can build awareness for the importance of first aid and CPR Certification and save more lives. Also, remember to enroll in your course as soon as possible. Tomorrow could be the day when the stranger next to you becomes a victim of a medical emergency.

About Greta

Greta is a dedicated life saver and a distinguished expert in the field of medical content creation and editing. Her impressive array of certifications in ACLS, CPR, PALS, and BLS underscores her commitment to excellence in the medical field. With over four years of invaluable experience in medical education, Greta plays an indispensable role within the Advanced Medical Certification team, shaping the way healthcare professionals around the world acquire and apply vital knowledge.

Greta's profound expertise serves as the driving force behind the development and distribution of medical content that has significantly enhanced the capabilities of countless healthcare practitioners across the globe.

In addition to her medical qualifications, Greta holds a prestigious academic distinction in Marketing and Global Business from Vilnius University. Her academic journey has been enriched by immersive studies in Slovakia and Portugal during her time as an exchange student, providing her with a global perspective that complements her medical expertise.

Beyond her professional commitments, Greta possesses a genuine passion for global exploration, with a particular focus on immersing herself in diverse cultures and appreciating the intricacies of the natural world. While residing in Vilnius, Lithuania, she continues to make substantial contributions to the field of medical education, leaving an indelible mark on the sector.

Reach out to Greta at greta.kviklyte@advmedcert.com.

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Hurricane Season First Aid Kit & Certification Benefits

by Greta Kviklyte

Life Saver, AMC

Co-authored by Kim Murray, RN, M.S.

posted on Sep 12, 2019, at 11:06 pm

Hurricanes form a basic part of life for those along the Atlantic coast, and the recent history of Hurricane Dorian reveals how unpredictable these storms can become. As August drew to a close, Dorian resembled nothing more than a Tropical Depression, but within days, the storm achieved hurricane strength. Before making landfall in the Bahamas, it grew to become the most powerful hurricane to ever strike the country, and it laid eyes upon Florida.

Fortunately, the storm changed direction, but the damage continued in North Carolina, Southeast Virginia and other local areas, notes The Weather Channel. For those without power and shelter, loss of life becomes a real threat.

We offer Online ACLS, PALS and BLS Certification and Renewal

With those memories fresh in the mind, the value of preparedness, including creating and maintaining a First Aid Kit and Certification, such as the program here, feels even greater.

All individuals need to understand the outlook for the Atlantic hurricane season, why recovery relies heavily on the masses, who needs a First Aid Certification, its value, how to create a kit from scratch and a few tips to weather the storm.

A Few Facts About Hurricane Season in the Atlantic

hurricane-rescuer-team Hurricane Season technically runs from June 1 through November 30. However, hurricanes have been known to form outside of this span. All hurricanes share a common standard—sustained winds of 74 mph or higher, which can topple buildings, bring untold devastation with rain and an unrelenting storm surge, says CNN. Predictions for the 2019 hurricane season continue to favor an “above-normal” number of named storms.
Even the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) updated its predictions in August to indicate a surge of activity that was not mentioned in the original May prediction. In fact, another storm brewing in the open ocean, Tropical Storm Gabrielle, could be the next biggest storm. Regardless of how severe the storm looks, Ready.Gov advises people to prepare ahead of time, gathering enough supplies to last at least three days. This is sound advice, but as seen in the Bahamas, a hurricane could stall.

Those without access to a First Aid Kit could find themselves in a dire situation. News reports from the past few days reveal multiple severe injuries in the Bahamas, including loss of limb. Meanwhile, the death toll had risen to 30, and country officials expect final mortality rates to soar higher. The prolonged lack of access to basic First Aid care for severe injuries, food, water and shelter will cost lives. As explained before in a blog post here, preparation for emergencies is essential.

Recovery Efforts Require Trained Responders

After the storm passes, the real recovery begins. People need help. Moreover, storm surge withdrawal presents a new danger. As the tide retreats to the sea, those without adequate shelter could be swept from the land. In the aftermath, stay vigilant for people in distress.
Drowning from storm surge remains a very real threat after a hurricane. Depending on how far inland the storm moved, rivers may still surge and break prior peak records. Such instances reflect an immediate increase in risk after a storm.

Those with injuries due to debris should be properly cared for, using clean water to rinse wounds, bandage them and prevent further health problems by getting to an appropriate health care facility. Unfortunately, failure to follow the instructions in your First Aid Kit could lead to subsequent infections.

What Is First Aid and Who Needs to Get a Certification

Maintaining a First Aid Kit and Certification demonstrates a person’s willingness to go the extra mile to help others. First Aid provides the life-saving skills to help people survive until professional help arrives. Depending on the severity of the injury, the use of additional measures, such as creating a split or applying a tourniquet, may be necessary.

While keeping a First Aid Kit in vehicles, the home and the workplace remains a valuable piece of advice, it is essential to know how to use the supplies correctly. Fortunately, most off-the-shelf kits include basic instructions for emergency care. However, more serious injuries may require more advanced knowledge of life-saving skills.

For example, the use of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) for those that experience drowning or cardiac arrest during or in the time following landfall. Even those without a medical background could save lives when a hurricane strikes. Most importantly, areas hit hardest by a hurricane will have limited first responders and medical personnel. It may be impossible to obtain timely care from a hospital or other emergency center. Therefore, everyone in the area becomes a first responder.

Community members should leverage First Aid Kits and Certification to be fully prepared for any disaster. This goes well beyond the risk for hurricanes. Heavy rains not associated with tropical storms, landslides, earthquakes and even manmade disasters may occur. Any day can become an emergency, and those with advanced training of how to use a First Aid Kit and provide care can become a stand-in responder.

How to Build a Basic First Aid Kit

A basic hurricane survival kit is comparable to a First Aid kit on steroids. The hurricane survival kit must include a basic First Aid Kit with at least the following:

Absorbent compress dressings. These dressings resemble padded gauze, perfect for absorbing blood and use in preventing infection to large wounds.
Adhesive bandages of different sizes. In addition to basic, rectangular bandages, include specific types, such as eye, finger and knuckle bandages. This will help you care for injuries of all sizes.
Adhesive cloth tape. Adhesive cloth take eliminates the risk of reaction to latex tape, and it can be easily removed without risking damage to skin—a key consideration for caring for the elderly.
Sterile, non-latex gloves. Wear sterile gloves when providing care to any open wound or when contact with blood or bodily fluids may be likely.
Medical shears or blunt-tip scissors. Obviously, an emergency causes a rush on supplies, but in a pinch, blunt-tip children’s scissors make an excellent substitute.
Antibiotic ointment. Antibiotic ointment may come in disposable packets or tubes. Also, include cotton-tipped applicators if your kit contains tubes of any medication or ointment.
Applicable medical equipment, such as lancets, inhalers and more. These instruments are essential for those with certain medical conditions. It may also be prudent to ensure an adequate supply of oxygen canisters in the home prior to the storm’s arrival.
Digital, instant-read thermometer. A digital thermometer is the easiest way to identify those with early signs of infection, such as a fever.
Prescription and over-the-counter medications. Keep a three-day supply of medications in the First Aid Kit. Check the kit medications for expiration dates at least every three months, regardless of the time of year.
Cleansing wipes and hand sanitizer. Cleansing wipes and hand sanitizer are excellent resources for when clean water is in short supply.
Aloe Vera gel. Aloe is most commonly used for burns, but it also can alleviate itching from insect bites and stings too.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). For instance, a CPR mask and other PPE, as explained in a previous blog here, will help prevent the spread of illness and help avoid bloodborne pathogens.

Also, create notecards containing health and medical information for each family member.

first-aid-kit For example, a family member medical card should include name, date of birth, medical allergies, current medication list, the name of the primary care physician and family member contact information. If desired, include a copy of your health insurance cards as well. Seal these cards within a plastic, waterproof sandwich bag. This will prevent damage from water. Also, consider investing in a waterproof First Aid Kit or container, available on Amazon. Floodwaters carry countless contaminants that may cause infections, rash, gastrointestinal illnesses and more, explains CDC.Gov, so avoid using flood water for any wound cleaning or drinking.

Extra Hurricane Preparedness Steps to Take

The exact hurricane preparedness steps to take depend on your location and susceptibility to both hurricane winds, flooding and storm surge. However, everyone can be more prepared by following the steps detailed by the National Hurricane Center. These include:

1. Gather your emergency supplies. Supplies include plenty of drinking water, nonperishable food and batteries.
2. Create a disaster plan, such as a Family Emergency Plan. This plan should detail where family members will meet and how to evacuate a town if needed.
3. Take evacuation orders seriously. Regardless of past luck, no one knows if an incoming hurricane could be your last. Always listen to officials, following evacuation orders when given.
4. Set a neutral gathering area. Hurricanes can dump rain hundreds of miles inland. Ensure your family knows how to travel along evacuation routes, including directions for avoiding low-lying areas that may flood.
5. Remember your pets. Pack enough pet food, water and medications, if applicable, to make it through the storm.
  Take appropriate damage prevention steps for your home. For example, board your windows, and if you know of elderly citizens that need assistance, lend a helping hand.
6. Know how to use a generator safely. Above all else, never run an electricity generator indoors or areas with poor ventilation. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, which is a silent, odorless killer.
7. Listen for the all clear. Those with NOAA emergency radios can receive updates regarding storm locations and conditions. Even when the storm seems to pass, remember the outer bands can still spawn severe weather, including tornadoes.
Enroll in Your First Aid Training Course to Be Ready for the Next Storm Now

Hurricanes remain a subject of much debate, and as climates evolve, the threat of future storms may grow more severe. While forecasts provide the most accurate predictions three to five days prior to landfall, Hurricane Dorian went by the wayside. The storm strengthened faster than anticipated and caused widespread devastation. As the Bahamian people try to recover, heroes will rise in everyday citizens, capable of helping others with First Aid and much more. Do not wait until a storm is on the horizon to stock your First Aid Kit. Take proactive measures to prepare, and ensure your skills are ready to deploy.

Have you ever endured the strength of a hurricane and needed to use your emergency First Aid Kit to make it through the event? If so, share your survival stories and experiences, as well as this article to social media. Awareness is power when it comes to hurricanes. Build your kit, know the threat, and prepare in advance. Also, remember to enroll in your hurricane preparedness First Aid program, as found here, now.

About Greta

Reach out to Greta at greta.kviklyte@advmedcert.com.

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by Greta Kviklyte

Life Saver, AMC

Co-authored by Kim Murray, RN, M.S.

posted on Aug 22, 2019, at 8:50 pm

Completion of an advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) course online is an excellent way to ensure your skills stay updated and relevant in the healthcare industry. While most exclusively associate ACLS with cardiac arrest, it holds value in treating major cardiovascular events, including stroke and hemorrhagic shock too. In fact, those suffering an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and receive high-quality care have a higher chance of survival, comparable to that of those that receive immediate ACLS in the hospital, says CPR.Heart.Org. Of course, providing high-quality care both within and outside of the hospital is essential to saving lives; completing an online certificate, such as the program available here, is an easy, effective way to achieve this goal and enhance your skills as a nurse .

We offer Online ACLS, PALS and BLS Certification and Renewal

Are Nurses Required to Complete an ACLS Online Certificate

Not all health facilities require nurses to complete an ACLS course. ACLS is used for patients requiring advanced cardiac care and life support, which is where the acronym derives. For example, completing an ACLS course may be necessary for nurses working in intensive care units (ICUs) and emergency departments, reports Nurse.org.

When this level of advanced care is necessary for pediatric patients, it takes on a new acronym. Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) takes the same life-saving algorithms and applies them to the anatomy and physiology of children.

Regardless of setting, all nurses must also maintain a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. This is a type of CPR that leverages informed decision-making and basic First Aid skills. In addition, those seeking to complete an ACLS course, whether it is through an online certificate program or in-person training, must possess a BLS Certification first. Most often, health facilities require nurses to obtain these certifications through an organization accredited by the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR).

Nurses must have the BLS certification at a minimum prior to starting work on a unit, and those working in intensive care units may fall into two categories. Some facilities may allow nurses to take and obtain ACLS or PALS courses within a probationary period, such as three months. However, each facility has discretion over the requirements for employment, so the facility may require employees complete an ACLS course prior to employment.

How ACLS Certification Helps Save Lives

The application of skills used as part of an ACLS response save lives. Although the acronym describes cardiac treatments and health emergencies, it also provides direction on several additional health emergencies, including:

Management of stroke. Although stroke involves the brain, it remains a cardiovascular emergency, and it is important to remember stroke can result from any embolus within the blood vessels. Air bubbles, fatty deposits, dead cells and blood clots may lead to a stroke, and during the summer months, heatstroke also falls under the umbrella of ACLS treatment due to its impact.
Addressing decreased cardiac output or correcting arrhythmias. Depending on the injury or trauma, a person suffering shock may experience decreased cardiac output or unusual heart rhythms, also known as an arrhythmia.
Assessing and treating reversible causes of arrest. The basic premise of ACLS Certification goes back to addressing immediate arrest, encouraging the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and treating the reversible causes of arrest, explains the ILCOR Journal, Circulation.
Administering medications as specified by the ACLS algorithm. Medication treatment for arrhythmia treatment or other causes of arrest is included within the algorithm.

These key factors of the algorithm increase the chances of survival after suffering a trauma or cardiovascular event, and while saving lives remains the biggest benefit of completing a course, additional benefits success.

Benefits of Completing an Online Certificate

Obtaining an online ACLS Certificate stands out as one of the fastest and easiest ways to increase your skill set as a nurse. Completing such courses open the door to new career opportunities, as shown below:

Increased employment opportunities in different work settings. Nurses with appropriate certifications may qualify for employment in higher acuity care settings, and depending on the facility, such employment may offer an increased wage compared to other floors.
Improved confidence in one’s skills. Receiving training to respond to traumas and cardiovascular events improves a person’s confidence and skills. During an emergency, delays cost lives, so increasing your confidence respond amounts to better treatment outcomes for those in your care.
Faster and improved critical thinking skills. Not all cardiac arrests present as such, and in the hospital setting, a person living with other health conditions could deteriorate into cardiac arrest. Recognizing the signs of cardiac arrest and an immediate activation of the response team requires critical thinking skills, evaluating what happened, what may happen and what needs to happen to ensure survival.
Flexible means of completing CEUs. All nurses must complete continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain licensure. The exact number of CEUs required varies by state, but numerous online resources, such as the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, can help nurses know their renewal requirements.
Requirements for nursing school and adding value to the application, which are also shown here. Nursing students complete clinical rotations to learn and practice their skills in the healthcare environment. Comparable to health facilities, different nursing programs may require students complete basic certifications prior to enrollment, including BLS. Those seeking admission to advanced programs of study, such as the program to become a Nurse Practitioner, may need to complete an ACLS program prior to admission as well.

Focusing solely on the benefits of completing an online certificate compared to a traditional, in-person class creates additional advantages, including:

The ability to work at a person’s own pace, completing modules and allowing those with other responsibilities, including school, work and family responsibilities, to stay on top of training requirements and improving their skill set.
Accessing the training center from mobile devices, reducing delays and hassle in completing CEUs for employment or other purposes.
Reviewing recent articles and publications, such as this article on your screen, to understand the value in advanced training and new factors affecting care standards.
Ongoing access to your course history, which helps individuals keep track of their CE use completed, expiry dates and more.

Non-Work Opportunities After Getting Your ACLS

The benefits of completion of online courses are not limited to professional lives. Nurses may not realize the true and extensive benefits associated with getting an online certificate for ACLS, which is available here. Nurses need to understand why completion of an online certificate for ACLS can make a difference in the lives of patients, friends and even total strangers. For instance, consider these ways an ACLS online certificate creates opportunities to save lives outside of the work environment:

- Volunteerism to help areas hit by disasters or humanitarian crises.
- Community outreach programs that spread awareness.
- Learning to recognize the signs of illness, especially heat-related illness.
- Improving survival rates for passersby suffering an event.
- Hours completed may be applied toward additional degree or programs of study.
- You could save the life of a family member or friend.
- Working in non-traditional care facilities, including schools, daycare facilities, major corporations’ on-site clinics and more.

Simples Steps to Choose an Online Certificate Course Provider

A quick search for online certificate courses for nurses pulls millions of possible options. Unfortunately, the rise of the Internet also created an opportunity for accredited institutions and unreliable organizations to take advantage of those looking for an alternative to a traditional, in-class course. As a result, nurses or prospective nursing students seeking to complete an online certificate course should follow a few steps to choose a reputable provider.

1. Look for an Accredited, Well-Established Provider

The biggest and most important factor in completing an online course is accreditation, such as the accreditation data shown here. While the ILCOR may be the most widely known organization for managing at accreditation, additional organizations exist, including the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education, the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the Postgraduate Institute for Medicine and the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. If you cannot easily locate accreditation information for the provider in question, move on to the next available result.

2. Review Available Courses and Their Costs

After selecting your top providers, review the available courses and their costs. Some providers may offer life-saving courses, such as ACLS, CPR, First Aid and Blood Borne Pathogens. For those in need of additional CEUs, and different provider may be appropriate to consider various training scenarios, such as active shooter training, which has become a key factor in all industries as well. Additionally, review the costs of completing each program. Since the programs are conducted online, it is easy to assume all programs have the same cost. A provider may charge a different fee, and some, such as Advanced Medical Certification, offer a life-long certification for a set price.

For example, students at this specific program paid the fee to complete the course, and when the certification approaches expiration, students log back into the system and retake the course. However, subsequent completion and testing does not incur an additional cost.

3. Consider How Long the Certificate Remains Valid

Depending on employer, certificates may expire much faster than the standard, two-year duration, for those working in critical care facilities, supervisors may require the renewal of such certificates more frequently, and even those with established certificates may need to complete additional in-person training to meet facility requirements. As a result, it is important to consider when certificates expire both by the organization and by employer.

4. Explore Additional Courses That May Be of Interest

Even though students and nurses may access a provider to complete coursework prior to employment or to meet employee stipulations, course providers may offer additional courses, which can increase a person’s skills as a nurse. For instance, Blood Borne Pathogens is one such course that helps nurses prevent cross contamination and ensure safety in the workplace.

5. Evaluate Study Guides and Aid Offered by the Company

The provider may also offer study guides, instructor-led videos and practice exams to help students prepare. The list of potential study aids is endless, so thoroughly review the provider’s website to find out what else can be of use in completing your courses.

6. Enroll

Although the prior steps help with provider selection, they are useless unless a person actually enrolls. For those uncertain of whether employers will accept accreditation standards from a given provider, ask your supervisor. Chance does favor those that take the initiative to expand their skills and ability to help people.

Take Advantage of the Far-Reaching, Personal and Professional Benefits of an Online Certificate

Nurses gaining an online certificate for ACLS have access to numerous career opportunities, as shown in a past blog post here. With demand among highly skilled care professionals growing, becoming ACLS-Certified amounts to better candidacy for available positions in the healthcare field, which will rise 15% before 2026, says the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do you currently have your ACLS online certificate, and if so, how has it impacted your personal and professional lives? Share your experiences along with this article to social media now. Also, remember to enroll in your life-saving, online skills course by signing up via this link.

About Greta

Reach out to Greta at greta.kviklyte@advmedcert.com.

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Is PPE Safe & Why Bloodborne Pathogens Training Remains Vital

by Greta Kviklyte

Life Saver, AMC

Co-authored by Kim Murray, RN, M.S.

posted on Jul 22, 2019, at 4:59 pm

The healthcare field continuously evolves. New diseases are identified, and people trust health professionals with their lives. Unfortunately, the basic tools used by health professionals, including personal protective equipment (PPE), can present an undue risk. Improper use of PPE can result in exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

We offer Online Bloodborne Pathogens Certification

Knowing the proper protocols for responding to an exposure incident is essential to reducing the risk of disease transmission. Thus, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates employers follow key protocols for Bloodborne Pathogens Training, which provides the skills necessary to handle and prevent exposure incidents.

Even with the proper training to reduce exposure, health professionals may still be at risk, leading some to question whether PPE is safe and effective? Answering those questions presents a challenge. Instead of hoping for the best, health professionals need to understand what safety risks with PPE exist, the potential blowback from failure to meet the bloodborne education requirements, why PPE is still the best way to reduce risk and a few tips for avoiding exposure incidents following reports of defective PPE.

Recent News Highlights Safety Risks With Following Protocols and the Use of PPE

blood-samples-examined-by-medical-assistant The past year revealed significant exposures occurring across the country. According to CNN.com, a New Jersey surgery center notified more than 3000 patients with possible exposure during their procedures. Employees were found to not follow appropriate sterilization procedures, and although not identified express, no one knows whether staff used appropriate PPE in the course of treatment. Fortunately, no cases of infection have been reported following this incident.

Another problem exists; the health industry suffers from a severe deficit of fun. Health centers have worked to reduce costs across the board, and the quality of PPE is among the first costs tossed aside. As explained by Becker’s Hospital Review, medical exam gloves are the most important aspect of preventing the spread of bloodborne pathogens, and the need to cut costs led health facilities to abandoned thicker walled gloves in favor of thinner, more affordable products. Standardizing the type of gloves used does offer advantages in terms of cost management. However, thinner gloves may tear more easily, and during the course of treatment, health professionals may be exposed to various pathogens and bodily fluids.

The High Cost of Failure to Comply With Bloodborne Pathogens Education Requirements

Both failure to follow protocols and the use of subpar PPE lead to significant risks for exposure to pathogens, undermine the value employees fill a company places in their lives and result in financial ramifications. Consider this; an exposure incident resulting in the transmission of C. diff can cost up to $63,700. In addition, the threat of glove failure alone is enough to add extra costs to the facility, resulting from the resignation of employees and costs associated with hiring new workers.

These costs do not reflect the potential penalties and fines assessed by OSHA. Maximum penalty amounts were adjusted for inflation at the start of 2019, and depending on the degree of severity, such as a failure to abate or a willful or repeated incident, violation costs can easily rise to more than $132,000 per violation. Employers typically pay the cost of such violations, but depending on your employer, a violation, especially a malicious violation, could result in legal proceedings to hold individual employees accountable for their actions. As a result, employees should follow all applicable standards and processes for complying with Bloodborne Pathogens Training and reducing exposure risk.

Why Bloodborne Pathogens Training Still Protects Workers

proper-use-of-hand-gloves Completing a Bloodborne Pathogens Training course does protect workers from the risks associated with caring for individuals. Bloodborne pathogens may reside within stool and bodily fluids, and in the course of treatment, such exposure may occur. Wearing and using the appropriate PPE, including gloves, masks, facials and gallons, as part of Bloodborne Pathogens Training reduces the risk of contamination. This is achieved by creating a barrier between the provider and the patient that prevents exposure. Of course, these barriers are susceptible to other risks, such as tears and needlesticks. As a result, knowing the protocols to reduce exposure risk, such as not recapping sharps, disposing of hazardous wastes and contaminated items appropriately, wearing appropriate protective equipment and following procedures for reporting and exposure, will still protect workers.

Additional evidence supports the use of continued training for reducing exposure incidents. According to a study, reports SafetyandHealthMagazine.com, researchers found 283 offenses among 325 observations of healthcare workers occurred over a nine-month period. These incidents were shown to have the potential to trigger transmission of pathogens. Approximately 100 violations were the result of fire to follow standard protocols, namely the use of PPE. Most importantly, this study did not identify any possible defect -related exposure incidents. While health providers cannot assume the products used in the facility studied were of a given quality, one thing is clear. The actions of healthcare workers make the biggest impact on preventing exposure to bloodborne pathogens.

How to Ensure Safety Despite Excess Standardization of Medical PPE

Health professionals have more power than they realize, and those that take the time to understand the risks thoroughly and follow these tips can reduce their risk of exposure.

1. Know What the Evidence Says

The first step is simple. Health professionals need to be aware of their surroundings and what the evidence actually says regarding the use of PPE and standards learned within a Bloodborne Pathogens Training course. Regardless of what horror stories exist in the media, wearing available PPE is the best way to reduce transmission.

2. Evaluate Current PPE Supplier Relationships

This tip is more geared toward those involved in supervisory roles, such as nurse managers, administrators and team leaders. Health organizations should reevaluate their current supplier relationships for potential defects or issues with PPE. In other words, they should know the thickness of PPE, how easily it may tear, whether PPE presents an added risk to employees and patients and more. Access to more information regarding PPE can help the entire administration make an informed decision about whether current relationships pose a threat to a person’s safety.

3. Stay Vigilant When Handling Sharps

For healthcare workers that use sharps, such as needles, extra care must be taken when handling contaminated items. All sharps should be disposed of in an appropriately labeled and placed container. Most importantly, it is never acceptable to reuse a needle, share syringes between patients or attempts to retrieve an item accidentally discarded within a sharps’ container. Since an exposure could occur from a simple needlestick, it is important to use any safety devices, such as locks or guards that automatically close off the end of a sharp.

4. Inspect PPE Prior to Use

Health professionals work in a stressful environment, and there may not always be time to thoroughly inspect PPE prior to use. However, make certain the equipment is free of obvious tears, holes or potential issues. These problems will be obvious. Spending an extra second or two to ensure the equipment used is intact and safe can go a long way in reducing risk of exposure. For PPE that has not been in-use, such as that kept in First Aid boxes or emergency kits, it is always a good idea to check it for signs of damage.

5. Know and Follow Incident Reporting Guidelines and Procedures

If an exposure incident does occur, the affected workers should immediately follow all appropriate processes and protocols for reporting and addressing the incident. In this case, time is of the assets, and in the delay in reporting an exposure incident could increase the risk of disease transmission. Although medications may reduce risk of infection, they must begin within a timely manner following an exposure incident, especially with regard to infections, such as hepatitis and HIV.

6. Provide Feedback Regarding Problems With PPE

Health workers are the first individuals to notice a problem with PPE in use in a facility. When tears seem to occur too often, health workers should report the problems to the supervisor. It may be a problem that management has not identified yet, and your feedback could be the key to preventing future exposure incidents.

7. Choose Employers That Place Safety Over Cost

This step can be tricky. Health workers should seek employment at facilities that follow all appropriate OSHA regulations and ensure the safety of their workers. In general, health facilities will meet these requirements, but all workers should take a few extra minutes to ensure a facility maintains the appropriate accreditations and provides proper training. This includes Bloodborne Pathogens Training.

8. Retake Your Bloodborne Pathogens Training Course

Since understanding the best way to reduce exposure means knowing more about bloodborne pathogens and risks while breaking, health professionals should retake Bloodborne Pathogens Training course often. Depending on the facility, the training course certification may expire after a period of one to two years. Even if your certification is valid for two years, the health facility does have the authority to require renewal of the certification more often, which effectively lowers the risk of an incident. If you cannot list the types of pathogens that are transmitted by bodily fluids or have not taken a course within the past two years, it is time to retake it today.

9. Apply Bloodborne Pathogens Avoidance and Safety Skills in All Care Situations

In all situations, including those at work and outside of the workplace, health professionals should apply the skills gained from taking a Bloodborne Pathogens Training course. Universal precautions mean taking a one-size-fits-all approach to viewing infection risk. In other words, providers should approach any situation where exposure may occur is to treat all fluids as if they contain the most infectious and deadly pathogen on the planet. This simple step can be the difference between a healthy life and one riddled with hospitalization, costly medications and added stress. So, wear all applicable PPE for any interaction, based on a reasonable expectation for the potential contact with bodily fluids.

10. Consider Alternate Options for Unresolved Issues

The final tip is the most controversial. If the facility administration and supervisors do not follow through with actions to resolve problems with PPE or maintaining compliance with OSHA standards, health professionals have a duty to report the issue to the next higher party. This may mean reporting incidents to additional members of the hospital administration or even submitting a report to oversight agencies, such as OSHA. In fact, employees may submit an OSHA complaint at any time, and all violations that are not resolved must be reported within six months. Therefore, it is best to report the incident as soon as a failure to act on the part of the facility is identified. Even if the issue does not result in an actual violation, a written complaint will likely trigger an on-site OSHA inspection to assess and eliminate any issue that presents a safety risk. Moreover, employees have strict protections against retaliation for making such complaints.

Know Your Role in Preventing Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens Training

Take the time to understand the risks surrounding bloodborne pathogens. Health professionals that understand the risks and what to look for in damaged or faulty PPE can reduce their risk for exposure. Also, professionals should keep the possible risks deriving from excess standardization in mind, and they should follow the aforementioned tips.

Have you ever experienced an incident with faulty gloves, damaged PPE or another exposure risk? If so, share your experiences along with this article to social media now. Also, remember to enroll in your risk-reducing training course to ensure you know the latest and best ways to avoid unnecessary exposure. Education saves lives, and this time, the life saved could be your own.

About Greta

Reach out to Greta at greta.kviklyte@advmedcert.com.

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What's The Mental Health First Aid Algorithm?

by Greta Kviklyte

Life Saver, AMC

Co-authored by Kim Murray, RN, M.S.

posted on Jul 12, 2019, at 3:43 pm

Mental illnesses affect the major section of the population in the USA and Canada, including both adults and youth. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), more than 46 million people, almost one in five US adults, live with mental illness. Unfortunately, mental illnesses reflect a grouping of disorders that can be difficult to recognize. The diverse set of symptoms and ongoing stigma surrounding mental health force millions of people to sweep their illnesses under the rug. When a crisis arises, actions and thoughts become erratic and present a risk. However, the application of Mental Health First Aid can make all the difference in the world.

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Mental Health First Aid is a relatively new approach to caring for those with illnesses that lack visible symptoms. When someone experiences a crisis, the public may not know how to respond. In a sense, each person, including strangers and acquaintances, may become a first responder of sorts to those in need, performing life-saving care. Health care professionals need to understand mental health statistics, the impact of First Aid for mental health, why it was developed and how to respond to mental health emergencies.

Mental Health Disorder Statistics and Prevalence

Mental health illnesses affect millions of people in the USA and around the globe. Unfortunately, mental health disorders affect all demographics, but the prevalence varies. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), key statistics include:

Members of the LGBTQ community are twice as likely to suffer from mental health disorders, including 11% of transgender individuals that have reported being denied for basic mental health services.
LGBTQ youth have two to three times more likely to attempt suicide.
Up to 11.3% of white males and 21.5% of white females rely on mental health services.
Asian individuals have the lowest rates of using mental health services, (4.4% of males and 5.3 of females).
One-half of chronic mental illnesses begin by age 14.
Almost one in 25 Americans live with a serious mental illness.

Two additional statistics are even more frightening:

Suicide rates increased 33% between 1999 through 2017, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death for all ages in the U.S., the second leading cause of death for those aged 10-34 and the fourth leading cause of death for people ages 35-54.

Due to the high prevalence of mental illness and the sharp rise in suicide rates, people need a way to intervene before a crisis takes a turn for the worse. This is where Mental Health First Aid comes into play.

What Is Mental Health First Aid

Betty Kitchener and Anthony Jorm developed Mental Health First Aid in 2001 as a way to help educate people on mental health crisis management and improve public safety, notes Mentalhealthfirstaid.org. While massive marketing campaign focused on educating people about how to respond to someone choking or experiencing cardiac arrest, little had been accomplished in the way of caring for those with a non-traditional emergency, such as mental health crises.

Unfortunately, horror stories and blame games litter and news outlets when someone in the grip of a mental health crisis leads to tragedy. However, mental health first 862 dispel the myths surrounding mental health crisis and provide a framework that people can use to help those unable to help themselves.

This innovative form of first aid focuses on hidden, non-visible illnesses. Someone suffering a traumatic event, grieving, panic attacks, delusions, paranoia and other issues needs more then treatment of scrapes and bruises. They need someone to intervene. The Mental Health First Aid algorithm is the intervention tool that will help people in mental health crises survive.

Who Benefits From the Mental Health First Aid Algorithm

Becoming certified in this form of First Aid offers key benefits to many people, including:

Those living with mental health disorders
First responders, including police officers, emergency medical services, firefighters and others
Health care professionals
Educators
Public safety officials

With mental health illness rates affecting 20% of the population, chances are good that you or someone you know will encounter another person living with a mental illness. Although the severity of mental illnesses may vary, a time of crisis is no time for uncertainty. In addition, those certified in Mental Health First Aid will save lives, either by preventing suicide or even homicidal behaviors and actions that may arise from a severe crisis. There is no excuse for failure to complete training to care for those suffering in mental health crisis.

Indicators of Someone in Need of Help

The biggest factor in deciding whether to apply the principles of Mental Health First Aid or contact first responders is recognizing when an emergency exists. For the purposes of this discussion, all mental health crises are emergencies. However, contacting emergency services first is not always the proper solution.

For example, contacting EMS might seem ideal, but ill-informed responders could exacerbate the situation. Instead, those with the proper training to recognize the indicators of a mental health crisis could intervene and share information with EMS or respond themselves. Obviously, anyone threatening self-harm or harming another person warrants an immediate call to emergency services.

The indicators of someone experiencing a mental health crisis may include:

Isolationist behaviors, including a fear of the outdoors, unwillingness to respond to phone calls or inquiries, the buildup of trash outdoors, failure to check the mail and more.
New signs of hallucinations, such as talking to oneself, focusing intently on something that is not there, or continuously swatting at their skin.
People that express a flight of ideas during the conversation, jumping from one point to another.
Poor personal hygiene and an unkempt appearance.
Alcohol and drug abuse, which constitute mental health disorders in and of themselves.
Erratic behaviors or mood swings, such as those displayed by those suffering a manic episode.
An accusatory stance or statement, such as accusing a person of “not minding their business” when the prior indicators exist.

In addition, recognizing the warning signs of suicide, as explained by NAMI, warrants intervention with Mental Health First Aid as well. These signs include:

Giving away personal property.
Dramatic changes in behavior or personality.
Making negative remarks about oneself.
Recent failed romantic relationships.
History of suicide or self-injurious behaviors.
Sudden cheerfulness or contentment following a period of despondency.
Preoccupation with death.
Making or changing a will suddenly.
Stocking pills or obtaining a weapon.

How to Respond to a Mental Health Crisis

Mental Health First Aid follows a five-step mnemonic, ALGEE, to help people intervene when someone experiences a crisis. These steps include:

1. Assess the Situation

Assessing the situation mirrors recognizing when someone is in-crisis. Recall substance abuse is a mental health disorder; entering withdrawal increases risk of experiencing a crisis by 25%.
While a person may recognize the signs of someone in crisis, it is equally important to assess the situation for safety. This follows the same pattern of safety assessment in providing any other form of life-saving care. After all, a person cannot help if the scene is unsafe. Unfortunately, engaging the ALGEE mnemonic requires a level of trust and willingness to respond.

In other words, assess the person’s actions based on visible observations and interactions. If the person does not appear to demonstrate immediate danger to themselves or others, continue to step two.

2. Listen Non-Judgmentally

The second step involves an unparalleled level of restriction of judgment. Those experiencing a mental health crisis may speak of countless issues and appear suspicious of your actions. As a result, those responding should maintain an open body posture, including:

Maintaining appropriate eye contact. Remember not to stare or make sudden eye movements. Your actions will be criticized and applied by a person that may lack the current capacity to understand your intent.

Be mindful of body language, such as keeping your hands and posture relaxed. Avoid crossing your arms; show compassion in your dialogue.

Let the person in-crisis lead the conversation at first. This builds rapport and trust.

3. Give Reassurance

After hearing a person’s concerns, take the next step; reassure the person. For example, “I understand you are worried about…”

This simple way of reiterating a topic will show the person you have been listening. In addition, make a personal connection, such as “I understand why you feel as though…”

Offer practical assistance to things you can control, such as providing a ride to get medications from the pharmacy, go grocery shopping or visit family members. Be willing to check in on the person to see how he or she feels. Sometimes, that extra level of compassion can mean the difference between a pleasant conversation or a tragedy. Ultimately, you want to make sure the person in crisis recognizes you take ownership and are willing to care about his life.

4. Encourage Professional Help

This step can be difficult, especially for those new to mental health interventions. Instead of making accusatory or demanding statements, spin the conversation toward possible solutions. For instance:

“I hear they have a great team of professionals trained in psychological care at…”
“Have you ever considered visiting a counselor to discuss the more intense personal matters?”
“I believe in you, and I can help you find treatment to help make it through the withdrawals.”

The exact language depends on each situation and what the person needs. The goal revolves around giving a person options for seeking care and locating available resources. Samhsa.Gov is an excellent place to start the search.

5. Encourage Self-Help

The final part of the mnemonic is encouraging self-help behaviors. These include actions that help a person cope with their illness, such as exercising, hobbies, yoga, group therapies and more. The list of potential self-help opportunities is endless. Having a cup of tea can be helpful. This steps rests on encouraging a person to do something positive that counteracts the adverse effects of stress and mental health deterioration.

If the person becomes violent at any point, attempt to resolve the situation through communication. However, be mindful of your surroundings, and contact emergency services when necessary. If so, make sure to explain the situation and the person’s current crisis in detail. This will reduce the risk of violence when additional help arrives.

Know How to Intervene During Mental Health Crises to Reduce Risk and Save Lives.

Anyone may experience a mental health crisis. As explained by the World Health Organization (WHO), those that experience emergencies, including war, conflict, stress and nuances of underdeveloped economies, have a higher incidence of mental health illnesses. In addition, millions of people in the U.S. and Canada suffer from mental health disorders, and when crisis occurs, those with certified in First Aid for mental health care have the skills necessary to help prevent tragedies. Health care professionals and those working in areas susceptible to a higher risk of mental illness need to know how to apply ALGEE. Mental Health First Aid saves lives. Period.

Have you encountered someone experiencing the throes of extreme mental anxiety or irrational behaviors? If so, that person may have suffered a mental health crisis, and knowing how to apply ALGEE in Mental Health First Aid could help others in similar situations in the future. Share your experiences and this article to social media now. Also, remember to enroll in your life-saving skill courses today.

About Greta

Reach out to Greta at greta.kviklyte@advmedcert.com.

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Stop The Clock On Septic Shock With The PALS Algorithm

by Greta Kviklyte

Life Saver, AMC

Co-authored by Kim Murray, RN, M.S.

posted on Jun 11, 2019, at 7:17 pm

Many medical issues and health concerns derive from infection, trauma and chronic conditions. Among children, the low risk of chronic health problems does not negate the impact of serious medical issues that arise, including sepsis. Although sepsis carries a severe outlook for those that go undiagnosed, the PALS algorithm and immediate life-saving interventions can help health care professionals recognize and treat sepsis before it leads to septic shock and possible loss of life.

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Health care professionals need to understand the basics of sepsis and its relationship to septic shock depending on the severity of infection and influence on other bodily systems. Understanding more about this condition can reduce unforeseen risks, including the increased risk of respiratory or cardiac arrest.

What is Septic Shock

Sepsis and septic shock are similar, but septic shock is the most severe complication of sepsis. Septic shock occurs when sepsis progresses past the body’s ability to overcome its adverse effects. Severe cases, also identified as septic shock, are associated with a mortality rate between 20-50%, reports Apollo MD. However, immediate action can reduce risk of mortality. At the same time, the severe effects may lead to an inaccurate diagnosis and increase the risk of prolonged identification and treatment.

Causes of Sepsis

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sepsis is an extreme bodily response to an infection. It occurs when an existing infection spreads through the blood and triggers an unusually strong immune response. Anyone can develop sepsis. The only prerequisite is an existing infection.

For example, an infected tooth or wound may cause septicemia, an infection already by the blood. As the infection continues, its effects begin to impact the bodily functions. The kidneys begin to fail, and the circulatory system becomes unstable. The lungs lose their ability to exchange oxygen, and the entire body falters.

The simplest of infections could lead to sepsis when left untreated. Among children, the risk is greater, says HealthyChildren.Org. A child’s notion of invincibility puts them at risk for injury and accident. While parents can look for risks, not all are visible. Even when the best conditions are met, sepsis could still take hold. Basically, it boils down to treating infections before they spread and lead to additional health problems.

Prevalence of Sepsis in the U.S.

Sepsis affects more than 200,000 people annually in the U.S. More than 75,000 children and infants develop severe sepsis, leading to septic shock as well, and 7,000 do not survive. That is a mortality rate greater than the rate of cancer-related, pediatric deaths per year. Unfortunately, care may come too late for those with sepsis, and even then, health care professionals may focus on the immediate needs, overlooking sepsis as a cause of illness. Left untreated, sepsis will lead to organ failure, tissue death and compounding health problems.

Sepsis also affects demographics differently. Those with weakened immune systems, people over age 65, those with a history of sepsis, known exposure to pathogens and children less than 12 months have the highest risk of sepsis. However, recognizing sepsis earlier in the course of care, such as when performing life-saving care as part of the PALS algorithm, can mean the difference between life and death, especially among children that cannot express their state of well-being.

Symptoms of Sepsis in Pediatric Patients

The best way to prevent septic shock lies in recognizing the symptoms of sepsis. Unfortunately, its symptoms closely mirror the symptoms of any systemic infection. As a result, it is imperative any child that exhibits the symptoms of an infection that cannot be tied to a treatable illness, such as the flu, be screened for sepsis. This may involve blood cultures and routine lab work, including a serum lactic acid levels and complete blood count.

The leading symptoms of sepsis include:

Rapid heart rate. Tachycardia is the heart’s natural mechanism to attempt to compensate for decreased function of the lungs and organs. As the conditions, each beat grows shorter, and unfortunately, a faster heart rate results in further decompensation.
Bradycardia. In addition to tachycardia, children of younger age, namely infants, may experience a slower heart rate in the late stages of sepsis.
Rapid, shallow respiration rate. Fewer respirations lead to a higher carbon dioxide (CO2) level within the blood. The response is to increase heart rate to make up for the decreased lung capacity, but even this contributes to a higher heart rate. It becomes a self-propagating cycle.
Confusion, disorientation or dizziness. Decreased oxygenation will result in diminished mental capacity, presented as confusion or delirium. In children, this may be characterized by excess lethargy, unusual grandeur or inability to follow a conversation appropriate for one’s age.
Clammy, cold hands and feet. This is another response mechanism as the body attempts to compensate. This symptom can also be an indicator of poor perfusion as it is one of the easiest areas to check for capillary refill. Using your thumb and finger, press down on the patient’s fingernail until it shifts from red to white. Release and watch for whether the blood restores the reddish hue to the nail. Any delay indicates significant loss of perfusion.
Shortness of breath or extreme pain, which is often characterized by extreme crying in infants. Shortness of breath exacerbates the problem, resulting in hyperventilation and worsening pain. Furthermore, shortness of breath could be a step on the way to bradycardia. It all depends on the unique case, medical history and current degree of infection.
Nausea and/or vomiting. Decreased organ function will further contribute to inability to perform basic activities, including involuntary activities, such as poor peristalsis. The build-up of material in the gastrointestinal tract leads to this sensation, comparable to the symptoms of colic.
Fever or even low temperature in infants. Since infants have limited muscle tone, which gives rise to poor ability to compensate, they suffer from a higher risk of poor outcomes from sepsis. This refers to the muscle tone within body organs, especially the heart.

Given the potential health risks associated with sepsis, health care professionals should consider sepsis as a potential factor in any instance of respiratory or cardiac distress or arrest. After all, sepsis contributes to the causes of arrest, most importantly poor perfusion of tissues.

Why Recognizing Sepsis Promotes Survival

Delays in recognizing a problem, even when EKG results and breathing appears as expected, contribute to poor patient outcomes. Remember children with a pulse well below normal limits, such as 60 beats per minute, is considered pulseless electrical activity. The same concept applies to instances of hyperventilating and tachycardia. Rapid respirations may result in a perfusion that is too low to maintain homeostasis.

An infection spreads until an immune response can keep the bacteria or virus from spreading. In the case of bacterial infections, an antibiotic provided the hole of predefined markers that augment the body’s natural immunity. Antiviral agents function in a similar manner, blocking a virus’ mode of replication. Unfortunately, the viral or bacterial levels in someone suffering from sepsis are too great to manage without intervention. As soon as treatment begins with the appropriate medication, the infection begins to slow and retreat. Yet, the damage may already exist. Therefore, it is imperative that caregivers act upon suspected cases of sepsis and those to which no indicators exist. Faster treatment with antivirals or antibiotics amounts to greater chances of survival. Furthermore, treating the underlying cause of distress, sepsis, helps to prevent a person from returning to extreme distress, including arrest.

The PALS Algorithm and Sepsis

The PALS algorithm provides a general roadmap for the treatment of poor perfusion caused by tachycardia. Now any treatment involving PALS will include measures to treat the reversible causes of arrest, such as hypotension and hypovolemic shock. When those measures do not apply and a cause of tachycardia cannot be immediately identified, health care professionals turn to a specific subset of the PALS algorithm. As explained by ECCGuidelines.Heart.Org, the first step of this part of the PALS algorithm is the evaluation of the QSR interval to determine its length. If greater than 0.09 seconds and the child exhibits mental compromise, additional signs of shock and decreased blood pressure, follow synchronized cardioversion protocols.

In other words, administer electric shocks, and if necessary, sedate the child. However, cardioversion should not be delayed in favor of sedation, especially if the child does not yet have an IV or IO access.

How to Reduce the Risk of Subsequent Distress After Sepsis

The biggest steps to reducing risk of such subsequent sepsis complications focus on completing treatment for the full prescribed term and reporting any symptoms to a health care provider. Furthermore, those that have endured sepsis have an increased risk of developing it later when subsequent infections occur.

In addition, health care professionals should administer antibiotics within one hour of a sepsis diagnosis. Depending on the cause, it may be necessary to increase fluid bolus volume to 200 mL per kg, while continuing the administration of multiple antibiotics to cover all possible infections. Once the cultures return from the lab, the antibiotic regimen will be refined to best treat the unique infection. The goal of initial treatment is to implement a broad medication regimen to prevent the worsening of symptoms and impact. As noted by Medscape, it is important to ensure all medications are administered in a timely manner and without delay after cardioversion and continuation of the PALS algorithm. Any delay in initial treatment could lead to worsening of sepsis, bradycardia and tachycardia, as well as increase the risk of a pathogen becoming a superbug and unresponsive to available antibiotics.

Four Additional Measures to Improve Septic Shock Recovery

Health care professionals can follow a few additional steps to reduce risk of complications following sepsis. These steps are typical infection control guidelines within the health care facility and include:

1. Ensure clean care settings. Maintaining clean care settings is about much more than just janitorial works. It includes checking in-room medical devices for cleanliness, replacing suction canisters frequently and advising everyone with a suspected illness, regardless of the cause, to avoid visiting the patient.
2. Use proper, sterile technique. This is the most obvious measure, using a sterile technique to prevent the introduction of pathogens to the body when administering IM, IV or IO medications or changing sites, as well as when performing wound care.
3. Wash your hands frequently. Handwashing is the best way to reduce the potential spread of infection from your other patients to one suffering from sepsis.
4. Monitor vital signs for change in status. Any deviation in vital signs should be reported immediately and assessed for impact on the efficacy of current treatment. Further, health care professionals must remember to check for a pulse during assessments, looking beyond the monitor, remembering the PALS algorithm guidelines to recognize pulseless electrical activity as any heart rate below 60 beats per minute.

Stop Septic Shock With Quality Life-Saving Skills

Sepsis and its more severe form, septic shock, represent one of the biggest threats to those most at risk, children. Failure to recognize sepsis will inevitably increase risk of poor outcomes and may cause long-term, if not permanent injury. Health care professionals can know more about sepsis can take the initial steps to recognize sepsis and force it into retreat.

Have you cared for someone that suffered sepsis, or have you worked for a facility that follows sepsis-recognition protocols? Share your thoughts and experiences, as well as this article, to social media now. Also remember to enroll in your life-saving skills course to ensure you know when to look for sepsis in following the PALS algorithm today.

About Greta

Reach out to Greta at greta.kviklyte@advmedcert.com.

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by Greta Kviklyte

Life Saver, AMC

Co-authored by Kim Murray, RN, M.S.

posted on May 14, 2019, at 1:48 am

Cardiac arrest claims the lives of more people annually than lung cancer, breast cancer and HIV/AIDS combined, reports the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association. Among those that suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA), survival rates are minimal, 12 percent, asserts CPR.Heart.Org, and unfortunately, only 46.1 of those that suffer arrest receive bystander CPR.

Part of this statistic is the result of misinformation surrounding cardiac arrest, whether its on an infant, child or adult. The reality is simple; knowing the proper CPR steps can help save lives, regardless of what type of emergency occurs. In fact, the leading steps are seven simple life-saving actions that make all the difference in the world for someone’s life.

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Before You Begin CPR, Remember to Check the Scene for Safety

CPR checking for breath Prior to providing help to those suffering respiratory or cardiac arrest, consider your own safety. The best intentions in the world will lead to loss of life if the scene presents a risk to your life. After all, you cannot save lives if you are now in need of care as well.

Checking the scene for safety depends on the location of the incident. For example, before helping someone involved in a traffic accident, make sure traffic has stopped. Someone in distress near a downed power line could still be in contact with the current, so it may be necessary to use a non-conductive object, such as wooden board, to move the line away from the person.

Potential drowning victims should be removed from the water and placed on a stable surface. In fact, more than 3,000 people lost their lives due to unintentional drownings in the U.S. between 2005 and 2014, reports CDC.gov. If the person appears to have suffered drowning, begin CPR steps as you would in any other case. Of course, remain vigilant over your surroundings to ensure your safety as you provide assistance.

If the scene is safe, begin by following these steps:

1. Learn to Recognize Emergencies

man holding his chest The biggest issue with performing bystander CPR is the misconception that people will always ask for help. By definition, sudden cardiac arrest may occur without warning. Learning to recognize emergencies is crucial to survival.

Anyone that collapses suddenly, expresses pain or tightness in their chest or suffers a trauma may need CPR.

Clenching one’s throat is the universal sign for choking. Even though the person may not be in cardiac arrest, time is of the essence. Without oxygen, brain damage will ensue, and the risk of mortality increases.

If none of the above occur, you may still be amid an emergency. Begin CPR steps with assessing the person and moving to the next step.

2. Activate Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

If possible, call 9-1-1 immediately. This is much easier today with the advent of cellphones, but some areas may not have adequate cellular access to call 9-1-1 from the location of the incident. In this case, tell someone else to call for help. If you are alone when a person collapses or enters medical distress, yell as loud as possible to get another person’s attention.

3. Assess Breathing

The next of the CPR steps focus on the actual work of CPR, including assessing breathing. A person that is not breathing may be a choking victim, someone that has experienced cardiac arrest or a person with a severe allergic reaction. Place the side of your face against the person’s nose and mouth. Taking less than five seconds, look, listen and feel for the person’s breath.

Listen for the sound of air moving
Look for the rise of the chest
Feel for the sensation of air blowing against your check

If the emergency began with a conscious choking victim, you may skip this step, replacing it with looking into the person’s mouth to see if the object has become dislodged.

4. Provide 30 Immediate Compression or Begin Abdominal Thrusts

Chest compressions should be performed at a rate of 100 per minute. This is the same rhythm as found in the popular Bee Gees song, “Stayin’ Alive.” If you lack formal CPR training, sing this song, and with each beat, push down hard into the victim’s chest until you have performed 30 compressions.

Prior years’ CPR recommendations advised responders to check for breathing prior to beginning compressions. However, this created a window of opportunity for brain damage and cellular death. As a result, the new recommendation is to begin chest compressions on anyone that suddenly loses consciousness or appears not to have a pulse.

Responders may check for a pulse, but any assessment of a pulse should be completed in less than five seconds. The fastest way to check for a pulse with the index and middle finger pressed against the groove on the side of the neck. This is the carotid pulse, and it is located just to the side of the space where a man’s Adam’s apple would rest. Even if you feel a weak pulse, it is best to begin CPR chest compressions.

For choking emergencies, the process is slightly different. If the person is conscious, begin abdominal thrusts. Reach around the person. Form a fist with one hand; grasp the fist with the other. Pull upward and hard into the person’s abdomen. Continue until the food is dislodged. If the person loses consciousness, proceed with the CPR steps.

5. Open the Unconscious Victim’s Airway

Someone that loses consciousness is within moments of death. As explained by MedlinePlus, the brain cannot survive for more than four minutes without oxygen. Unconsciousness may result from trauma, chronic health problems or even sudden stress. Each event carries a risk of cardiac arrest. After the initial round of compressions, it is time to open the victim’s airway.
Opening the airway is simple with the head-tilt, jaw-thrust maneuver. Grasp the person’s chin; pull out and upward slightly. Some CPR recommendations advise to only perform this step if rescue breaths do not go in. However, it takes only a second to perform and saves time for someone facing death’s door.

This is true regardless of the type of emergency or cause of arrest. Place the side of your face within one inch of the person’s mouth and nose. Look, listen and feel for the person’s breath. If the emergency began with a conscious choking victim, you may skip this step, replacing it with looking into the person’s mouth to see if the object has become dislodged.

6. Give Two Rescue Breaths

Attempt to provide two rescue breaths. Each rescue breath should last one second. In addition, rescue breaths can be delivered mouth-to-mouth or mouth-to-nose, so someone with a severe injury to either can be saved. For mouth-to-mouth rescue breaths, remember to pinch the nose as well. For infants and very small children, place your mouth over the nose and mouth of the child to deliver rescue breaths.

Rescue breaths leverage the remaining oxygen when you exhale to provide relief to someone in distress. If the rescue breaths do not go in, assuming the person was not choking, attempt to reposition the head and tongue. This is achieved by re-tilting the head and/or performing a jaw thrust. Grasp the person’s chin; pull out and upward slightly.

If upon attempting to administer rescue breaths, you are still unsuccessful, the person was likely choking and did not display any signs or indicators for help. In these cases, it is important to resume CPR steps. It may seem like more work than a single person can perform. However, each action taken increases chances of survival. If others are nearby, solicit their help. Anyone can perform rescue breaths or chest compressions at your direction.

Just one person knowing how to respond empowers an entire area of people to help when something goes wrong.

7. Continue Until EMS Arrives

The final step to remember is the need to continue repeating the process until professional help arrives. CPR is performing in rounds of 30 chest compressions to two rescue breaths. Most importantly, do not leave the person until someone else is able to take over care. You will also need to explain to first responders what you saw and how long it has been since the person entered cardiac arrest. Of course, an exact timeline may not be possible, but any information can help first responders save a life.

What About High-Quality CPR Steps

High-quality CPR revolves around the need to provide the best care possible for someone suffering cardiac or respiratory arrest. It includes these key steps:

Ensure appropriate chest compression depth. Chest compression depth is approximately two inches for an adult and not more than 2.4 inches, explains the Mayo Clinic.
Allow for chest recoil between compressions. For compressions to be effective, you must allow a moment for the chest to recoil. This will occur naturally, and it requires you to fully remove force from the chest for a split-second. However, do not remove your hands from the person’s chest at all. This is the best way to avoid unnecessary delays in providing care.
Get an AED if possible. Using an AED is one of the best ways to save lives when providing CPR. In today’s world, more AEDs are available in public and recreational locations than ever before. Schools, community centers and shopping malls may have AED available and ready to use. Most AEDs will be easy to spot and signage. Apply the AED pads at the end of a set of chest compressions and when another person is administering rescue breaths. Most AEDs will include visual instructions for pad placement. Upon turning on the device, it will assess electrical activity of the heart, advising when to not touch a person, clear for a shock, deliver a shock and resume CPR.
Never stop CPR in an emergency. This is the most important aspect of high-quality CPR. Never stop performing CPR until someone else can take over care or the person regains consciousness. However, anyone that has suffered such an event will still need to be examined by a medical profession, so stay with the person until professional help arrives.

How to Respond to Potential Stroke Victims

For those that may exhibit the signs of stroke, cardiac arrest is still possible. Stroke refers to the blockage of blood vessels within the brain, and while it commonly caused by a blood-clot or air trapped in the circulatory system, it may also occur when a person suffers cardiac arrest. In other words, stroke may be the result of or even the cause of cardiac arrest. As a result, it is important to follow these steps for the conscious victim:

Ask the person to smile. Look for any signs of facial paralysis
Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, such as “the earth round”
Activate EMS
Stay with the person until help arrives

Know When and How to Apply the Leading CPR Steps

Performing CPR is a high-intensity exercise that will help those suffering respiratory distress or cardiac arrest survive until EMS arrives. While the steps may vary slightly based on the exact needs of the person, such as someone who becomes unconscious while choking, they mirror one another. Regardless of your profession or personal goals, obtaining your CPR Certification should be a top priority.

Have you ever performed the key CPR steps outside of the workplace? If so, share your experiences along with this article to social media now, and remember to enroll in your life-saving skills course to ensure you know how to respond.

About Greta

Reach out to Greta at greta.kviklyte@advmedcert.com.

Keep reading

What is advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) certification

What Does Basic Life Support (BLS) Stand For?

ACLS vs. ALS

How AMC Can Help You With Your AED Training Program

by Greta Kviklyte

Life Saver, AMC

Co-authored by Kim Murray, RN, M.S.

posted on Apr 5, 2019, at 10:18 pm

Implementing an automated external defibrillator (AED) training program empowers staff, passersby and trained professionals to save lives outside a healthcare facility. Depending on your industry, deploying such a program may reduce liability, provide peace of mind for your consumers and prevent tragedies. Furthermore, an AED training program demonstrates responsible business ownership, increasing brand value. Implementing such a program is more complex than simply purchasing a device. However, it is the most important tool to expand your business’s capability to provide life-saving support for those who suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA).

We offer Online ACLS, PALS and BLS Certification and Renewal

During implementation, care must be taken to find the right defibrillator for your business. Owners must review local laws, proactively manage the risks of making a device accessible, ensure employees have the right training and more. The risks will always be worth the trouble, and in fact, those that follow these steps can ensure program success and save lives too.

Participants during AED training using a defibrillator on a practice mannequin

What Industries Benefit from an AED Training Program?

All industries will benefit from the implementation of an AED training program. However, some industries are more likely to utilize the device due to an increased risk of suffering OHCA. BizJournals reports that these industries and businesses include the following:

Industries where people work closely together. These businesses include offices and factories, where heavy and industrial machinery can result in tragedies in the workforce. If an incident does occur, having a device nearby can be the difference between life and death.
Transportation providers. Businesses in this industry have a duty to ensure the safety of their consumers, and may also be among the first to recognize cardiac stress in passersby.
Construction companies. Workers for companies that manage outdoor worksites are subject to the risk of a lightning strike or other injuries, such as those caused by animals. As a result, implementing a program to keep AED devices close to workers, such as placement in vehicles, can lower mortality risks.
Healthcare clubs, fitness units, gymnasiums and cafeterias. These businesses should also have AED training programs, as their customers may have undiagnosed chronic illnesses. The Mayo Clinic reports that the risk of a cardiac event is higher among this population group.
Businesses in locations where rapid access to emergency medical services isn’t possible. These job sites include remote construction projects, maritime vessels, energy pipelines and offshore drilling rigs.
Educational institutions. These organizations may be required by state or local regulations to implement an AED training program. However, private institutions may not be subject to the same regulations governing the use of and access to funding sources.
Service-oriented businesses. An AED training program in businesses like shopping malls, retail centers and restaurants and other service-oriented businesses can save lives, as OHCA is more common in areas where people congregate.

Key Steps to Implementing a Successful AED Training Program

Implementing a successful AED training program is a complex, detailed process. Businesses that are considering such a program should follow the following steps to ensure it succeeds.

1. Determine whether AED training is necessary

This is the most important step in installing a defibrillator program in your organization. Businesses may opt to implement a program for a variety of reasons, but the underlying desire to save lives must remain the highest priority. The biggest issue that companies face is the decision of whether a program is necessary.

While a defibrillator can save lives, it isn’t always best practice to install one in each building, site or other location. Depending on the size of your business and profit margins, such a strategy could easily rack up thousands of dollars in costs, or even more than $100,000. Furthermore, these costs don’t include training and program development costs. As a result, it’s essential for businesses to take a comprehensive look at whether a defibrillator is truly necessary and how it will improve the experiences of employees and consumers.

Ultimately, a defibrillator is a great way to reduce the risk of mortality from a cardiac event. However, no business should implement an AED training program simply for the appearance of safety. Such programs have detailed needs and requirements that are much more involved than you would expect of a status symbol. If a program is right for your organization, the next step will help you begin the real work of installation.

2. Work with a physician or other experienced healthcare professional to develop an implementation program and timeline

Depending on your location, physician supervision and guidance is necessary to implement an AED training program. Some states do allow for non-physician support in developing a program, but the burden of responsibility for ensuring proper adherence to local standards and statutes falls to each business owner. Therefore, it’s essential to work with an experienced healthcare professional who understands the complexities, risks and best practices in implementing and deploying an AED training program. Furthermore, working with a physician ensures your organization takes these additional steps during implementation and throughout the life of your program:

Document everything. Proper documentation is essential to reducing your liability for injuries or other unintentional harm caused by defibrillator use. In addition, documentation is necessary to maintain compliance with applicable laws and ensure all likely users, such as employees, understand how to use the device properly.
Maintain Your Devices. Developing a written plan for maintaining your defibrillators is another vital step in the installation of such programs. Determine when you should replace batteries, pads or wires, and create a way of validating such replacements. For instance, keeping a notepad within a device’s case is a great way to track replacement actions.
Use Proper Signage. When a program is installed, it lacks value if passersby don’t know where it’s located. Even in secure facilities, employees who haven’t yet completed AED training may need it. As a result, it’s important to specify signage rules for implementation within the program materials and ensure all potential users know where to access the device.

3. Decide on the type of device to purchase

Many types of AED devices are currently available for purchase. Certain defibrillators may resist drops, dirt, water or other elements, while others are designed to withstand falls or other potential risks. For example, implementing an AED in a location where workers use heavy machinery or other equipment used may be subject to multiple conditions during regular operations, as well as during an emergency. Furthermore, the best type of device to purchase may depend on location. For example, a fully-automated system automatically delivers a shock, while semi-automatic systems require user intervention to deliver a shock.

4. Choose a location for devices, and ensure they’re kept away from children

Implementing an AED training program can lead to a higher risk of injury if you use it improperly. This includes accessing the device outside an emergency, or allowing children and passersby to “play” with the device. However, the legal liability for implementation of a device is minimal, according to Markel Insurance. The key to minimizing this liability lies in ensuring a comprehensive program that adheres to all applicable standards, best practices and concerns that may present a risk to those in your facilities.

5. Register your location for emergencies

In addition to reviewing local laws and statutes governing the implementation of an AED training program, it’s important to notify the local emergency medical services (EMS) department of an AED implementation. Even in areas where such notification isn’t mandated by law, it can help busy departments ensure communities have adequate access to life-saving measures. Furthermore, each person who recognizes your location as a place to obtain a defibrillator for emergencies is more empowered and able to help others when emergencies occur.

6. Conduct User Training for All Possible Parties, Especially Employees

Proper user training is a crucial aspect of installation. Most automated devices don’t require much training to use, but knowing how in advance will save lives. Think about it this way; no one has time to read an instruction manual when an emergency arises. Therefore, companies should pay for employees to attend an AED training course or conduct it themselves. Training may also be a legal requirement in your area. In addition, you should maintain records of certification for use and review them during program audits and device maintenance.

7. Train staff to handle other emergencies

A staff member is likely to jump into action when an emergency arises if they’ve been trained. In addition to preparing for a cardiac event, businesses should train their staff on how to respond to other emergencies. In today’s world, these emergencies may range from shootings to wildfires, as well as extreme weather events. Ready.Gov reports that staff should know how to respond to each potential issue, including evacuation routes, safe zones, lockdown practices, and emergency supplies.

8. Expand service capabilities with CPR and First Aid

Another effective way to improve the ability of staff members to respond to emergencies is to provide them with training that goes beyond just using a defibrillator. For example, training for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid also shows employees how to provide immediate care to people with additional injuries, up to and including heart problems. It’s also important to create a first aid kit during this phase or consider purchasing one. Ultimately, such a kit expands your team’s service capabilities.

9. Integrate defibrillator program materials with disaster and emergency preparedness and recovery plans

Phys.Org explains that the U.S. has endured more multi-billion dollar disasters in recent years than any other time in history. Some of these costs are attributable to the increased value of property, but the biggest issue remains; disaster prevalence appears to be increasing at an alarming rate. Even areas with a lower risk of severe weather and natural or manmade disasters are starting to feel the effects. At the same time, the frequency of cascading disasters—those that only grow in severity or contribute to subsequent disasters—is also increasing. Unfortunately, people with underlying medical illnesses may have a higher risk of OHCA when these events occur. Thus, integrating your AED training program with existing disaster preparedness and recovery plans should be a key step in implementing these programs. This approach ensures your team members and customers understand your willingness to help them during adverse events.

10. Use the program to add value for your customers

Your public relations (PR) strategy for installing a defibrillator is the final step in implementing an AED training program. After all, the best program in the world will be wasted if no one knows about it. Implementing a program also adds brand value to your organization by putting the fears of staff members and consumers at ease when doing business with you and your team. Your PR strategy for a defibrillator should also include soliciting feedback from community members and consumers. This feedback may include their feelings about AED training implementation, questions, ways to learn more about its use and its impact on current activities. Ultimately, the program is a great way to get more customers in the door and interested in what you do.

Get Started With Your Program by Learning How to Use the Device Properly

Green AED training sign mounted on a brick wall, indicating the location of an Automated External Defibrillator A defibrillator program is only one aspect of preparing your business for an emergency. However, before you decide to install a program and begin the process of ensuring its success, you should get ACLS certification or recertification for yourself. You’ll see how easily and quickly you can use a defibrillator and how it can mean the difference between life and death.

If you’ve already purchased a defibrillator, it’s not too late to review the steps for using it and ensure you haven’t overlooked anything. If you’ve previously implemented an AED training program and have any tips to add, share them on social media now.

Frequently Asked Questions About AEDs

Why is my AED making noises?

AEDs periodically perform self-test, usually at least once a week. All models should test the battery level and perform internal diagnostics, but some also check the condition of the electrode pads and gel. If a unit fails any of these tests, it will emit a beeping or chirping sound. Turning the unit on should produce an audible explanation of the problem that requires attention.

Can an AED be used on a child?

Yes, most AEDs are able to administer a lower level of electricity for use on smaller patients, such as children. Some models provide separate pads for these patients, while others allow you to adjust the shock level with a physical control like a key or switch. Most manufacturers set the threshold for lower output at 65 pounds.

About Greta

Reach out to Greta at greta.kviklyte@advmedcert.com.

Keep reading

What is advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) certification

What Does Basic Life Support (BLS) Stand For?

ACLS vs. ALS

The Positive Effects Of BLS For Healthcare Providers

by Greta Kviklyte

Life Saver, AMC

Co-authored by Kim Murray, RN, M.S.

posted on Mar 1, 2019, at 9:00 am

In-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) mortality rates are staggering. According to the ScienceDirect.com, only 12 percent of those that suffer OHCA survive. However, those that suffer IHCA have a survival rate of 24.8 percent. The distinction is the immediate responsiveness of healthcare professionals. Therefore, BLS for healthcare professionals is essential to doubling the survival chances of those in need of care.

We offer Online CPR and BLS Certification

The positive effects of knowing how to respond to cardiac arrest permeate the healthcare industry; recognizing them can be more difficult. The benefits go further than obvious improvements to personal skill set. In fact, healthcare professionals should consider these top ways proper training can impact their workplace, personal careers, and patients.

BLS for Healthcare Providers Improves the Attitude of Staff

Completing a BLS course can have a drastic effect on employee morale and attitude. As explained by the National Library of Medicine (NLM), a study of the perception and attitude toward CPR and BLS found a significant increase in positive attitudes among those that complete a course. The degree of positivity was highest among those that recently completed a course.

The study used a questionnaire to assess perception of CPR in the healthcare facility prior to and after attending training. Approximately 53 percent of participants expressed positive attitudes before completing a course. That statistic rose to 64.8 percent upon completion. Moreover, the number of total CPR and BLS courses taken over multiple years affects perception as well.

Although positive attitudes toward life-saving measures may seem unrelated to employee morale, it is important to remember healthcare professionals work in a high-stress environment. Mistakes in providing care during such crises take an emotional toll. Recurrence of errors can lead to disciplinary action, further increasing the risk of burnout. As explained by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the typical burnout rate among healthcare professionals rose 9 percent between 2012 and 2015.

The problem with burnout goes back to its impact on patients. Healthcare professionals experiencing burnout become detached from their work. Negative attitudes develop, and patient safety falls by the wayside. Negative emotions add fuel and hostility to the workplace, creating a feedback loop that increases the prevalence of burnout. Making a slight change in attitude, especially involving emergency care and response, reinvigorates passion and commitment to help others. Thus, BLS may lead to lower burnout rates and improvements to patient care and treatment outcomes.

Proper Education and Application of Skills Enhance Student Learning

chest compressions The quality of education among healthcare professionals determines success in treating patients. According to the NLM, nursing students that complete an online course develop their professional and personal skills in tandem. Online students must take the initiative to complete course modules and study independently. This helps prepare nursing students to make life-altering decisions in the clinical setting. Furthermore, proper education builds the confidence necessary to apply skills under pressure.

Although the study indicates a comparable level of knowledge retention between online and in-person courses, individual facilities may have different requirements. Students may need to complete a “Mock Code Blue” to test their skills in the workplace. In fact, the ongoing application of skills in a simulated environment, including both online and in-person training, is linked to an increase in confidence and ability to respond.

Training Allows for Professional and Personal Growth in Underdeveloped Areas

Another key effect of completing BLS training exists in underdeveloped areas. Underdeveloped areas include locations with limited access to emergency services, other countries and isolated areas. For example, healthcare professionals working overseas can leverage their skills to bring healthcare to new regions. The effect is not limited to medical professionals; even dental care professionals that complete a course can have a drastic impact on quality of life and access to healthcare. A recent study of Nigerian Dental Students, asserts the Nigerian Postgraduate Medical Journal (NPMJ), found understanding basic life-saving skills to be minimal, participants were only able to score 40 percent on a test to determine BLS and CPR skill set. Upon completion of a course, student averages rose significantly with 88 percent answering at least seven of 10 questions correctly.

The study notes areas with limited development may have a higher risk of mortality following a cardiovascular event, including arrest. Even though dental students may not be in the position to treat severe medical illnesses, each person that completes a thorough course on emergency response serves to reduce the risk of mortality. In other words, encouraging all healthcare professionals to complete a course, including those working outside of the traditional medical sphere, should lower mortality rates in underdeveloped areas.

Knowing How to Respond Leads to the Creation and Use of “Help Me” Apps

As explained by the Journal of Emergency Medical Services (JEMS), the way people with respond has evolved due to technology. Government and non-profit organizations created mobile apps to further reduce the amount of time between arrest and receiving care outside of the hospital setting. These “Help Me” apps function by connecting BLS-certified citizens with those in need of assistance. They do not replace the role of EMS; they provide a way to augment first responders and improve patient outcomes. It all derives from situational awareness.

For example, John Smith is walking down the road when he collapses. Passersby stop to render aid, but they do not know how to perform CPR. One person uses an app to notify users in the vicinity of the emergency. Those with training receive an alert. Different apps exist, geared toward civilians or healthcare professionals.

The great irony of these systems goes back to a simple problem; family members and friends may be reluctant to provide CPR. Any time lost due to apprehension will increase the risk of mortality, as well as long-term injuries. However, bringing someone with the right training into the equation ensures someone can step in and provide care until EMS arrives.

These systems function through the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system, which is also the system used to dispatch emergency responders. Both emergency responders and app users are notified at the same time, and in high-traffic or rural areas, this can cut response time significantly. Ultimately, both metropolitan, rural and under-developed areas benefit from the use of this technology, which is expected to become widely available in the next two years.

Better Understanding and Responsiveness Contributes to Better Patient Outcomes

Patients that receive high-quality CPR and BLS have better treatment outcomes. According to NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov, high-quality CPR refers to the proper compression-to-breath ratio, adequate compression depth, allowing for chest recoil and checking for a pulse. Although the study analyzed the compression rate in relation to a return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), the results indicate better compressions have a higher survival rate.

In addition, the prior AHA recommendations called for a compression rate of 100 per minute across all age groups. However, the AHA changed the recommendation slightly, advising of at least 100 compressions per minute. As a result, BLS for healthcare providers now teaches students to perform 100-120 compressions per minute. The goal is to keep compression speed up to give patients proper perfusion of the organs and encourage ROSC.

Knowing how to respond to someone in cardiac or respiratory arrest is applicable outside of the care setting as well. Healthcare professionals have a professional duty to render aid to those that suffer arrest outside of the typical facility, and the ability to act immediately is crucial to ROSC. In fact, the real effect can be seen by reviewing the survival rates of IHCA versus OHCA. In cases of IHCA, performing CPR and BLS is a given. However, those suffering OHCA have a greater risk of not receiving care immediately. A mere 46 percent of those that suffer OHCA receive bystander CPR, asserts CPR.Heart.Org. Consequently, the survival rate of OHCA is much less than those suffering IHCA.

Of course, administration of advanced measures, including medications to treat the reversible causes of arrest, is an integral part of increasing survival chances following IHCA. That does not negate the importance of providing BLS and CPR until EMS arrives. In other words, those that have completed the proper training for responding to IHCA can apply those skills outside of the facility and save lives, and the life saved could be a stranger, a friend, your mother, father, child or even your co-worker.

High-Quality Education Augments the Prowess of Your Resume/CV

Improvements to your resume have the power to affect your ability to find and secure employment. In healthcare, your resume must meet the minimum requirements for hiring managers to even begin the interview process. Completing an online BLS for healthcare professionals course helps your resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV) stand apart, especially for those new to the field. In fact, some ways BLS for healthcare professionals impacts your resume include:

It demonstrates your willingness to complete extra training to improve your skills. The obvious benefit to your resume of completing a BLS course is its impact on your professional and personal development. Since you are willing to maintain outside certifications to expand your career options, it demonstrates your willingness to.
Keeping up with life-saving certifications is a prerequisite for direct-care positions. Some employers may not even consider hiring an individual that does not already have appropriate certifications prior to applying.
BLS and CPR training are valuable skills for all industries, including support services for the healthcare industry. Although BLS is a core certification for healthcare professionals, completing training is useful for any industry, especially those involving childcare and services to the public.
Immediate recognition of certification streamlines hiring decisions/processes. Healthcare managers that see skills and certificates listed on your application are more likely to contact you and schedule an interview. Even if certification is provided by the facility for employees that do not already have it, getting your certification in advance increases the attractiveness of your resume.
Life-saving skills open the door to specific areas of healthcare. Completing a BLS course is much more than just a prerequisite for certain floors. Listing your past and current certifications can help managers choose an applicant for large facilities, especially hospitals. For instance, those with BLS may work in supportive roles, but those with advanced training may work in intensive care units (ICUs) or acute care facilities too.

Ultimately, the skills listed on your resume, proven with a certificate of completion, help you find and keep the healthcare position you want. Moreover, it eliminates the uncertainty and confusion in maintaining your credentials and providing documentation to employers.

Take Advantage of the Positive Effects of BLS Training

The positive effects of BLS training for healthcare professionals are too great to ignore. Completing a proper training course prepares you to respond to both IHCA and OHCA. From the effects on better patient outcomes to professional development, BLS is the best and easiest way to save more lives.
Put these effects to work in your workplace and life by enrolling in a life-saving skills course now. Has your facility seen a reduction in adverse patient outcomes following comprehensive training requirements for BLS? Share your experiences or thoughts along with this article to social media now.

About Greta

Reach out to Greta at greta.kviklyte@advmedcert.com.

Keep reading

What is advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) certification

What Does Basic Life Support (BLS) Stand For?

ACLS vs. ALS

10 Reasons Getting Your BLS Certification Online Is The Way To Go

by Greta Kviklyte

Life Saver, AMC

Co-authored by Kim Murray, RN, M.S.

posted on Feb 11, 2019, at 6:14 pm

Health care professionals lead busy lives, and the chaos of the work environment carries over into personal time. In fact, up to 35 percent of nurses report the amount of overtime worked has increased within the past year, notes ModernHealthcare.com. Working extra hours can cause problems with team collaboration and meeting obligations outside of the work.

One of these obligations includes completing continuing education units (CEUs), such as Basic Life Support (BLS) and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).

We offer Online CPR and BLS Certification

Fortunately, health care professionals can take advantage of a BLS Certification online course to renew their credentials without the hassle and stress of finding an in-person class. In fact, consider these top 10 reasons why completing an online life-saving skills course is superior to traditional learning environments.

hand of doctor coming out of a laptop holding a stethoscope

1. Completing BLS Certification Online Offers Flexibility for Busy Health Care Professionals

The biggest reason people choose to complete an online BLS course revolves around time management. Health care professionals may lack the time to complete CEU courses while at work. Depending on employer preferences, CEUs may need to be completed outside of the work environment as well. With more health care professionals working overtime to compensate for expanded access to health care and the nursing shortage, if applicable, finding time to attend an in-person class is difficult at best. However, completing a BLS Certification online course immediately increases the flexibility to meet the needs of the individual.

2. Online Courses Include On-Demand, Interactive Resources

Online courses have the advantage of combining technology with education, and interactive, on-demand learning resources, such as instructor-led videos, tutorials and interactive media, help students commit information to memory. Industry experts expect more online courses to continue development of interactive multimedia to encourage student enrollment and improve learning, says Jordan Friedman via U.S. News.

3. Users Can Complete Coursework From Anywhere With Internet Connectivity

Completing an online course is about more than simply finding time to work on courses at home. Course students and participants using an online platform could work on studies from any location with Internet access, provided the right technical requirements are met. Some courses may require a full laptop-based browser, but others may function with smartphone operating systems. This added level of flexibility in terms of location is another reason demand for online courses is expanding.

4. Less Company Overhead Translates Into More Affordable Courses

Health care professionals must renew their credentials at set intervals; completing CEU courses may be necessary for such renewal. This is true for both CPR and BLS Certifications as well. In other words, maintaining existing credentials adds to the cost of licensure and employment.

Completing an online course effectively lowers the cost of maintaining such credentials. According to Derek Newton of Forbes, online courses are rapidly growing in popularity due to their benefits, including lower tuition. Although a BLS Certification online course is shorter than a traditional, semester-long course, online CEU providers can still offer courses at lower rates due to this decreased level of overhead. In addition, online course payment models may differ from traditional, in-person CEU courses. General savings for online courses may range from 3 to 50 percent.

For example, students may have paid $50 or more to complete a single BLS course, and the cost recurs upon expiration. Meanwhile, an online course may charge a single fee, allowing users to retake the course and renew certifications without additional charges.

5. Students Review Course Materials at Their Own Pace

Another crucial benefit of completing an online skills course goes back to the ability to review course materials at the student’s preferences. In a traditional classroom setting, students only have a single opportunity to review course materials and ask questions. However, completing a class online allows students to review course modules and revisit problem areas on-demand. Instead of waiting until the next course or class schedule to ask questions, students can get the answers they need today, which can make a difference when performing life-saving measures in health care.

6. Online Education Can Provide a Source of Social Interaction

Online courses can also provide a source of social interaction. Since health care workers with busy schedules may be less likely to spend time with coworkers outside of work, an opportunity to bounce scenarios and ideas off other students in a faceless environment can go a long way for managing stress. Not all classes offer a forum or area to connect with other online students, so it is up to each professional to determine if interaction with other course participants is a priority over completing the course. The same concept applies in reverse, allowing students that wish to avoid unnecessary interaction to complete a course without disruption from other participants.

7. Mobile-Optimized Courses Make Working Across Devices Easier

In the digital age, it is possible to complete coursework across multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, PCs and terminal-based systems at third-party locations. Today’s online courses are optimized for mobile experiences, so users can move throughout the course without unnecessary eyestrain and trouble navigating the system. As a result, students are more likely to complete a course faster and recommend it to coworkers, friends and family members. In other words, it is in the best interest of the course provider to make materials and the course itself as accessible and easy-to-use as possible.

8. Online Courses Have the Most Relevant, Updated Information in Curricula

Unlike traditional courses, online courses may contain updated standards and information that was published within recent weeks, if not days. The nature of an online class allows for fast updating of information, so students know they are learning the latest best practices and standards to improve quality of care. Obviously, in-person education focuses on providing the latest information too, but in-person classes may rely on outdated textbooks and pre-existing workbooks for teaching students.

9. Users Can Retrieve Digital Certification Records When Necessary

Online course participants may choose a digital means of completing coursework to prevent issues from arising if the course completion certificate “vanishes.” Everyone has been in the awkward position of retaking a course earlier than necessary due to losing proof of completion. Digital courses effectively eliminate this concern by giving students access to a digital record of their work. Depending on the course provider, obtaining a new certificate may be as simple as logging in and printing out a copy.

10. BLS Certification Online Courses Adhere to the Same Accreditation Standards as Traditional Courses

The last benefit contributing to an online course’s superiority over traditional, in-person classes is simple, but it is the most important. Online courses must adhere to the same standards and accreditation of in-person classes for compliance purposes. In addition, it is easier than ever to validate a provider’s accreditation by looking for American Heart Association accreditation on the course’s website. Therefore, an online course is just as effective as an in-person class for teaching students skills necessary to succeed in the health care field.

Tips to Make Online Your Online BLS Course Successful

Simply enrolling in an online course can also be a period of uncertainty. Taking an online course requires discipline. It is up to the student to complete the course requirements, study and pass the final examination. Fortunately, students that follow a few simple tips can enhance their chances of success in online courses.

1. Confirm the Technical Requirements for the Course and Its Materials

As explained by USNews.com, checking the technical requirements for an online course must be the first step to completing a course successfully. This problem may be more prevalent for students using older computers or mobile devices that lack upgrades for newer operating systems. Also, students that plan on using multiple devices to complete coursework should ensure all devices meet the technical requirements.

2. Take Advantage of Multimedia for Study Aids

Online courses will include different media for enhancing studies. Take advantage of all available media to commit information to memory, including videos, quizzes and interactive tutorials. In addition, students may consider reviewing social media and third-party resources for more information about course contents. Even a simple YouTube search will reveal hundreds, if not thousands, of videos that can help you understand and learn the proper techniques in providing life-saving health care.

3. Avoid Working on Course Materials During Busy Parts of the Day

The flexibility of online courses means students can complete coursework at any time, but that does not mean they should during periods of high-stress. For instance, students should avoid coursework while at work or when tending to other responsibilities. Moreover, focusing on the course alone will help students remember details, which will save lives in the health care environment.

4. Take Notes With the App of Your Preference

Another way to succeed in online courses is to use an app-based tool to take additional notes. Even though online courses may include printouts for review, taking notes on a mobile device or app adds to interaction in the course. Therefore, students can spend less time studying and more time completing the coursework.

Different apps exist as well, and some allow users to take notes directly onto printouts of existing materials, highlight text and more. For example, OneNote can import Word or PDF files into the application, and users can edit text or images appropriately. OneNote also allows for the syncing of notes across multiple devices via the Google Play Store for Android devices and iTunes for iOS devices.

5. Take Online Pretests and Course Review Quizzes to Check Your Knowledge

Although pretests are usually used to help people recognize when their skills are slipping, they can be an added resource when taking an online course.

For instance, students can take the pretest prior to completing coursework. Upon completion of individual modules, review the test results to see where and understand why your responses were correct or incorrect.

Students may also opt to retake the pretest as a practice test prior to the final exam to test their knowledge as well. The same is true for taking available quizzes and practice tests throughout the course.

6. Organize Your Notes at the End of Course Modules

Going back to the idea of taking notes in addition to reading course materials, it is important to continuously organize notes. Even the best app-based notes will become disorganized with time. Students repeating coursework to renew certifications may even consider updating or reorganizing notes as well. The simplest way to manage notes is to create an outline that mirrors the course objectives upon starting the course. Students should also review note organization upon completion of modules and prior to taking the final examination.

7. Consider Making Extra Study Aids, Such as Flashcards

The final tip for succeeding in online courses is simple and varies based on personal study preferences. Course participants should take advantage of what works for them to help remember course materials. This may include making extra study aids, including graphics, charts, flashcards and presentations. Obviously, these aids will take time to create, but their value to the individual making them will last for years.

Take Advantage of the Benefits of and Enroll in Your Online CEU Courses Now

Completing a BLS Certification online course is the rational choice for health care professionals that have little time and patience to find and attend an in-person course. Moreover, online courses may cost less and offer other advantages, including lifetime certifications. Students that enroll in online courses should also follow the aforementioned tips to maximize their learning experiences and apply information learned in the health care environment. Ultimately, quality education contributes to better quality of care for those in need.

Do you have any other tips for completing online courses or reasons for choosing an online course over a traditional, in-person course? If so, share them along with this article to social media. Also, remember to enroll in your online skills course today.

About Greta

Reach out to Greta at greta.kviklyte@advmedcert.com.

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