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CPR, First Aid, AED & BLS Certification FAQ

This expanded FAQ covers everything about CPR certification, First Aid training, AED use, BLS certification, onsite workplace training, scheduling, pricing, certification rules, OSHA-related questions, and real-world emergency guidance.

If you don't see your question here, please don't hesitate to reach out for assistance.

Scheduling, Booking & Class Logistics

How do I schedule a CPR or First Aid class?

You can schedule by contacting Northern Nevada CPR directly. We help determine:

  • Course type (CPR, First Aid, AED, BLS)

  • Group size

  • Training location

  • Preferred dates and times

We provide onsite training at your business or organization across Northern Nevada.

Do you offer onsite CPR training at my workplace?

Yes. We specialize in onsite CPR, First Aid, AED, and BLS training. We bring all equipment directly to your location.

What areas do you serve?

We provide training throughout:

  • Reno

  • Sparks

  • Carson City

  • Fernley

  • Fallon

  • USA Parkway / Tahoe Reno Industrial Center

  • Spanish Springs

  • North Valleys

  • Sun Valley

  • Washoe Valley

  • Minden

  • Gardnerville

  • Incline Village

  • Surrounding Northern Nevada communities

How far in advance should I book?

We can usually accommodate a short turn-around for classes, but we recommend scheduling 1-3 weeks out-especially for larger groups.

Can you train employees on different shifts?

Yes. We frequently schedule multiple sessions for:

  • Day shifts

  • Night shifts

  • Weekend crews

Can you come to small businesses or offices?

Yes. We offer Blended Learning options for CPR and BLS courses. After completing the online portion through the American Heart Association, you can schedule your in-person session with us. 

Yes. We train businesses of all sizes, including small offices and large organizations.

Not at all. Simply fill out our scheduling form with your preferred dates and times, and we'll get back to you right away to confirm availability and finalize your booking.

How long does it take to schedule a class?

Most classes can be scheduled quickly depending on availability.

Payment, Pricing & Billing

How much does CPR training cost?

Pricing depends on:

  • Course type (CPR, First Aid, BLS)

  • Group size

  • Onsite vs individual training

  • Custom business needs

Group onsite training is typically the most cost-effective per person.

Do you require payment upfront?

Clients are invoiced after training is completed, with a 30 day net.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept:

  • Business invoicing

  • Credit/debit cards

  • Cash

  • Checks

  • Electronic payments 

Is there a minimum number of students required?

A minimum number of participants may apply for onsite training depending on location and course type. 

CPR Certification Basics

What is CPR?

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is an emergency procedure that helps maintain blood circulation when a person’s heart stops beating effectively.

How does CPR save lives?

CPR helps:

  • Maintain oxygen flow to the brain

  • Keep blood circulating

  • Buy time until AED or EMS arrives

How quickly should CPR be started?

CPR should begin immediately. Brain damage can begin within minutes without oxygen.

Can CPR restart the heart?

No. CPR does not restart the heart. It helps keep the person alive until defibrillation (AED) or advanced care restores normal rhythm.

Is CPR hard to learn?

No. CPR is designed for simple, repeatable steps that anyone can learn with hands-on practice.

What skills do CPR classes teach?

Students learn:

  • Chest compressions

  • AED use

  • Choking response

  • Emergency recognition

  • Adult, child, and infant CPR (course dependent)

How long does CPR certification last?

AHA CPR certification is valid for 2 years.

What happens if my certification expires?

You must take a renewal or full course to remain certified.

First Aid Training Questions

What is First Aid training?

First Aid training teaches how to respond to injuries and sudden illness before emergency responders arrive.

What does First Aid training include?

Common topics:

  • Cuts and bleeding

  • Burns

  • Shock

  • Fractures

  • Sprains

  • Seizures

  • Allergic reactions

  • Heat illness

  • Diabetic emergencies

  • Poisoning

  • Choking emergencies

Why is First Aid important?

First Aid helps stabilize injuries and prevent conditions from worsening.

Can First Aid prevent emergencies from getting worse?

Yes. Proper First Aid can reduce complications and improve outcomes before EMS arrives.

 AED Questions

What is an AED?

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a device that analyzes heart rhythm and can deliver a shock if needed to restore normal rhythm.

Can anyone use an AED?

Yes. AEDs are designed for public use and provide step-by-step voice instructions.

Will an AED shock someone incorrectly?

No. AEDs only deliver a shock when medically necessary.

How often should AEDs be checked?

AEDs should be regularly inspected for:

  • Battery status

  • Pad expiration

  • Readiness indicators

 BLS Certification

What is BLS?

BLS (Basic Life Support) is an advanced CPR certification for healthcare and clinical professionals.

Who needs BLS certification?

Common roles include:

  • Nurses

  • EMTs

  • Doctors

  • Dental professionals

  • Medical assistants

  • Healthcare students

  • Clinical technicians

What is the difference between CPR and BLS?

  • CPR: general public and workplace responders

  • BLS: healthcare-focused, advanced procedures

Does BLS include AED training?

Yes. AED use is a core part of BLS training.

Onsite CPR Training

What is onsite CPR training?

Onsite training means we come directly to your workplace to conduct CPR, First Aid, AED, or BLS training.

Why do companies choose onsite training?

Benefits include:
No employee travel
Reduced downtime
Group learning environment
Flexible scheduling
Training at your actual workplace

Do you bring equipment?

Yes. All manikins, AED trainers, and materials are provided.

Can training be customized to my workplace?

Yes. We often tailor scenarios to match workplace risks.

Workplace Safety & OSHA Questions

Is CPR required by OSHA?

OSHA does not universally require CPR for all industries, but many workplaces are required or strongly encouraged to have trained responders based on risk.

Why should employers provide CPR training?

Because it:

  • Improves emergency response time

  • Reduces workplace risk

  • Increases employee confidence

  • Supports safety compliance

Do businesses need First Aid trained staff?

Many workplaces benefit from trained staff depending on hazard level and proximity to emergency services.

Should every workplace have an emergency response plan?

Yes. CPR and First Aid training should be part of a broader emergency preparedness plan.

Certification & Validity

Are your certifications American Heart Association?

Yes. All courses are through the American Heart Association (AHA).

How do I receive my certification?

You receive an AHA eCard via email at the end of class.

Are AHA cards accepted by employers?

Yes. AHA certification is widely accepted nationwide.

How long are certifications valid?

All AHA CPR, First Aid, and BLS certifications are valid for 2 years.

Childcare Specific Questions

Do childcare providers need CPR certification?

Many childcare providers are required to maintain CPR and First Aid certification depending on licensing requirements.

Do you offer pediatric CPR training?

Yes. Pediatric CPR includes infant and child emergency response training.

Is CPR required for teachers or coaches?

Many schools and youth programs require or strongly recommend CPR training.

Does CPR training include choking emergencies?

Yes. Choking response is included in all CPR courses.

 Emergency Response Knowledge

What is the most important thing in an emergency?

The most important step is recognizing the emergency and calling 911 immediately while beginning CPR if needed.

Can CPR be done incorrectly?

Even imperfect CPR is better than no CPR. Training helps improve effectiveness and confidence.

What is sudden cardiac arrest?

Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart unexpectedly stops beating effectively.

How is cardiac arrest different from a heart attack?

  • Heart attack: circulation blockage

  • Cardiac arrest: electrical failure of the heart

Scheduling & Contact Us Questions

How do I get started?

Contact Northern Nevada CPR to schedule onsite or group training.


We will help determine:

  • Best course

  • Group size

  • Location

  • Schedule

Why choose Northern Nevada CPR?

We provide:

  • American Heart Association certification

  • On-site workplace training

  • Flexible scheduling

  • Hands-on instruction

  • Service across Northern Nevada

I don't see an answer to my question.

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