Kansas CPR’s Frequently Asked Questions about CPR & First-Aid Training
If you don’t see your question here, please contact me and I will be glad to answer it for you.
- Can I be sued for performing CPR or first aid?
Many states have Good Samaritan Laws in place that protect those who render emergency care. Consult your local/state laws for actual interpretation. - What are the risks of being infected with a communicable disease while giving CPR or first aid, e.g. HIV?
There is always a risk; however, it is quite low. All courses offered stress the importance of barrier devices and other protective equipment. - What does AED stand for?
It stands for automated external defibrillator. It is a device used to shock the heart when in cardiac arrest.
- What does CPR stand for?
It stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It is the skill needed when a person is in cardiac arrest to provide blood flow to the heart and brain.
- How long does a CPR course take?
It varies from course to course. Please refer to the list of classes for a full description. - How long is my card valid?
All American Heart Association courses are valid for two years. They expire at the end of the month in which they were issued. - What are the warning signs of a heart attack?
Chest pain possibly spreading to the left or right arm, neck, jaw, or center of the back, shortness of breath, heavy sweating and nausea. Actions for anyone experiencing the signs or symptoms should be to lie or sit quietly and call 911 right away. - What are the warning signs of a stroke?
Sudden severe onset of a headache, weakness or inability to move one side of the body or the other, facial droop, slurred speech, and vision disturbance. Actions for anyone experiencing these signs or symptoms should be to lie or sit quietly and call 911 right away. - What if I have been trained in CPR but forget the actions?
Performing CPR for the first time can be scary. First and foremost call 911 and to remember the letters CAB. It will help you remember the steps. - What do I do if I don’t have a barrier device with me?
If your workplace requires you to know CPR or first aid, then they should provide you with a barrier device or make one available in a first-aid kit. At work you will need to provide care. Away from work the choice is yours. Many barrier devices fit on a keychain so you can have one with you.