As new parents, we want to do everything we can to protect our children. We often think about our children’s health in terms of regular visits to the doctor, a good car seat, a nutritious diet, et cetera. But, first aid and CPR training is another important component of your child’s health and safety!
We hope they never do, but accidents can happen. In fact, accidental injury is the leading cause of death for children in the U.S. If the unthinkable should ever happen to your child, basic first aid and CPR skills could make all the difference. A parent first aid course that covers infant and pediatric CPR is an essential step towards keeping your child as safe as possible.
Top Reasons To Learn First Aid As Parents
From emergency preparedness to reducing anxiety, there are tons of great reasons why a new parent’s first aid course is immeasurably valuable.
1. You’ll gain skills that could save your child’s life.
Getting a pediatric CPR and first aid certification will prepare you with practical skills for a variety of emergency situations. For example, pediatric first aid and CPR courses will cover how to save a child who is choking. According to the AHA, over 90% of deaths due to foreign objects occur amongst children who are younger than 5 years old. With a training course under your belt, you’ll know what to do should your child choke––and your preparedness just might be the difference between life and death.
2. Accidents are likely to happen at home.
While your child is at school, daycare, or other activities, they are in the safe hands of professionals who have likely received pediatric first aid and CPR certification themselves. But, what about at home? Around 2,000 children ages 14 and under die each year as a result of an injury sustained at their homes. At home, you are more than likely going to be the first one on the scene if a medical emergency occurs. Pediatric CPR and first aid for new parents prepare you should an accident happen at home. While you wait for first responders to arrive, you can start administering care and helping your child. Our pediatric first aid and CPR course also covers preventative steps and safety best practices so that you can also learn how to reduce the risk of an accident at home.
3. A little peace of mind goes a long way.
As a new parent, you might feel a lot of worry or anxiety. There are many unknowns––and babies don’t come with a handbook! By taking a pediatric first aid course, you can rest assured knowing you have training. Knowing that you are prepared in the event of an emergency can help new parents sleep a little easier.
4. Pediatric first aid is different from adult first aid.
It may seem obvious, but the medical needs of infants and children are different from those of adults. Even if you are well-trained in adult CPR or adult first aid, it is important to refresh your knowledge and learn the specifics of pediatric care. New parents, in particular, can benefit from an enhanced understanding of pediatric medical situations and how to handle them.
5. Being prepared helps reduce panic.
In an emergency situation, it’s very common to panic––especially when your child is involved. However, quick, effective action is key in a medical emergency. Having a solid foundation of CPR knowledge and first aid skills reduces the likelihood that you’ll freeze up in these time-sensitive situations. Instead, you’ll recall your training and know exactly what to do! Staying calm, taking smart actions, and providing correct care will give your child the best possible chance of a full recovery.
Skills Covered in Pediatric First Aid and CPR Courses
During a pediatric CPR and first aid course, you’ll gain essential knowledge and practical skills that will help in an emergency situation involving a child or infant. The following are some of the common topics that are covered in these courses:
- How to perform CPR on adults, children, and infants
- How to identify signs and symptoms of cardiac arrest
- Proper Automated External Defibrillator (AED) use
- Treatment for pediatric asthma and anaphylaxis
- Helping unconscious and conscious choking victims of all ages
- Administering first aid with a special focus on common pediatric emergencies
- Prevention and safety measures
Learn Pediatric First Aid and CPR with SureFire CPR
SureFire CPR’s Pediatric First Aid and CPR course is an excellent option for new parents, preschool employees, daycare staff, child care workers, and babysitters alike. We’ll cover all of the key knowledge and training you need to be prepped for a pediatric emergency. We offer many class dates and times at our offices around Southern California. The course runs around 4-5 hours and you’ll have the chance to ask your instructor any questions you may have. After the course is completed, you’ll receive a certification that lasts up to 2 years.
It’s the SureFire difference––all of SureFire CPR’s courses are taught by industry experts who have field experience as professional EMTs, paramedics, lifeguards, nurses, and more. With real-world examples and expertise, we make the learning experience engaging, supportive, and exciting. When you leave the classroom, you’ll depart feeling empowered with life-saving skill sets and confidence in your abilities.
Ready to start your pediatric first aid and CPR journey? Contact us to sign up for a class today. You can give us a call at (888) 277-3143 or use our online contact form.
