How to Do CPR

As a paramedic, I've done CPR more times than I can count. Interestingly, many of those have been when I was not on-duty in an ambulance. There's no way to predict the moment when you may be called upon to do CPR.

The best preparation for CPR is by taking an appropriate CPR class. CPR classes, however, are not created equal. There are CPR classes for professional rescuers as well as CPR classes for the lay public. Some CPR training programs provide good, professional instruction, while others are just trying to make a buck.

To be sure you aren't getting taken to the cleaners while you're supposed to be taking CPR, learn the questions to ask. Read Before You Take a CPR Class for the information you need to make the right decisions about CPR training.

CPR is the most basic of all emergency medical training, but it is also the most important. Make sure you know how to do CPR before you need to do it.