How to Become a CPR Instructor

by | Oct 21, 2020 | Education, Guest Blog | 0 comments

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Teaching has always been a noble profession, regardless of the subject that one chooses to specialize in. For those that are looking for unique teaching experience, becoming a Certified CPR instruction can open the door to a satisfying career path. CPR instructors bring with them the knowledge that can save lives and reunite families. This powerful gift to share vital knowledge with the world is one of the best benefits of becoming a CPR instructor.

The road to earning your CPR instructor certification is full of specialized training from the experts at Lifesaver Education and requires a high level of dedication. When you understand the importance of your role as a vital educator, you will be motivated to go forward with your training.

Benefits of Becoming a CPR Instructor

Most CPR instructors begin their careers employed by the American Heart Association (AHA) or the Red Cross. From there, qualified instructors have the option to move forward into specialized instruction for hospitals or private lessons on their own. 

One of the main benefits that draw people into CPR instruction is the ability to share crucial and lifesaving information with ordinary people. Saving lives and teaching others how to help a loved one in an emergency is a great way to earn a paycheck.

As a CPR instructor, you will be able to expand your social and business network. Even if you practice as a part-time instructor, your experience will be a valuable asset to your resume. Many CPR instructors enjoy traveling around the country teaching at the company, and schools. You may even get the opportunity to travel internationally as a certified CPR instructor.

Job Description

Certified CPR instructors organize, schedule, and lead classes to teach the proper techniques and procedures of life-saving CPR. General duties include organizing travel arrangements, setting up for classes, working with and evaluating students, and completing paperwork. Many CPR instructors teach on a part-time basis holding their classes in the evenings or on the weekends.

Requirements

Degree Level  –  High School equivalency degree

Certification    –  Basic life support instructor certification

Experience     –  2-3 years teaching experience preferred

How to Become a CPR Instructor

Step 1

To be accepted into a CPR Instructors class you must first complete a Basic CPR certification course. It’s best to take a course that is offered directly from the AHA or the American Red Cross as their certifications will be more specific than classes that are offered for other medical healthcare workers. Once you are certified, contact the AHA directly to find out if they are accepting new applications for instructors.

Step 2

You will have to take and pass a pre-course exam for instructors given by the Red Cross. This exam is available online and will help you to determine if you are ready to pursue an instructor’s certification. 

Step 3

Whether you conduct your training through an independent agent or the AHA or Red Cross you will have to complete prerequisite courses that begin your training. The AHA offers the Core Instructor Course that covers basics like instruction methods, planning, and assessment guidelines. The Red Cross initial course is called the Fundamentals of Instructor Training and will cover the history of the organization, organizational tools, and training activities.

Step 4

Completing all areas of study will take you through a variety of courses. Your training will prepare you for your journey whether you will be teaching children, lifeguards, babysitter, or EMTs. Your course load will include instruction on Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and Basic Life Support.

Step 5

If you take your CPR training through the AHA you will be required to teach an actual class while under observation before receiving your full certification. You will have to plan, organize, and teach a class on your own.

Becoming a CPR instructor will take work and dedication, but it can be a rewarding and exciting career or as a part-time endeavor that can help you teach others about life-saving skills.