Normandale Community College Students welcome to attend our CPR Training Classes

Normandale Community College Students: BLS CPR Certification in Minnesota

If you’re a Normandale Community College student who needs CPR certification for nursing or another healthcare program, In-Pulse CPR offers convenient American Heart Association BLS Provider classes throughout the Twin Cities.

Normandale’s current 2026 Nursing Information Packet requires admitted nursing students to submit a current Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider CPR certification before beginning the program.

Which CPR Class Should Normandale Students Take?

If your Normandale program tells you that you need BLS Provider certification, register for our:

American Heart Association BLS Provider Class

This is the healthcare-level CPR course designed for nursing students, healthcare professionals, and others who may need to respond to cardiac or respiratory emergencies.

Training includes:

  • Adult, child, and infant CPR

  • AED use

  • Rescue breathing

  • Choking response

  • Two-rescuer CPR

  • High-quality chest compressions

  • Team-based BLS skills

After successfully completing the course, you receive an American Heart Association BLS Provider eCard, generally valid for two years.

Does This Meet Normandale Nursing Requirements?

Normandale’s March 2026 Nursing Information Packet specifically states that students must submit a current Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider CPR certification after acceptance into the nursing program.

Normandale also recognizes American Heart Association BLS or CPR certification within its transfer and prior-learning information.

If your program instructions specifically require an AHA BLS Provider certification, this is the In-Pulse CPR course you should select.

Because individual program and clinical requirements can change, always follow the most recent instructions provided by Normandale.

CPR Classes Convenient for Normandale Students

In-Pulse CPR offers classes at multiple locations throughout the Twin Cities, giving Normandale students more options for finding a date and location that works with their school schedule.

View Upcoming Minnesota BLS CPR Classes

When registering, choose the BLS Provider option.

Why Normandale Students Choose In-Pulse CPR

  • American Heart Association BLS Provider certification

  • Instructor-led, in-person training

  • Hands-on CPR and AED practice

  • Multiple Twin Cities classroom locations

  • Evening and weekend class options

  • Same-day or next-business-day AHA eCard processing

  • Student workbook included

  • Classes available for first-time students and renewals

Our goal is to make completing your CPR requirement straightforward while giving you meaningful hands-on practice.

What About Normandale Dental Hygiene Students?

Normandale offers an established Dental Hygiene program with extensive clinical training.

Normandale has also historically offered CPR for the Professional Rescuer coursework specifically intended to satisfy CPR requirements for its Nursing and Dental Hygiene programs.

If you are a current Dental Hygiene student, check your program’s most recent CPR requirements before registering. If your instructions call for American Heart Association BLS Provider, select our BLS Provider class.

Is the Class Fully In Person?

Yes.

Our traditional BLS Provider classes are instructor-led and completed in person, including hands-on CPR practice and skills evaluation.

This is a good fit for students who prefer a traditional classroom course instead of completing part of their training online.

When Will I Receive My BLS Card?

Most students receive their American Heart Association BLS Provider eCard the same day or by the next business day after successfully completing class.

That can be especially helpful when you are working against an approaching school or clinical deadline.

What Should I Bring to Class?

Bring a valid photo ID and wear comfortable clothing because you will be practicing CPR skills on manikins.

No previous CPR experience is required.

Already Have BLS Certification?

If your certification is approaching expiration, you can take the same BLS Provider course to renew it.

BLS Provider certification is generally valid for two years, so it is a good idea to check your eCard expiration date before the beginning of a new semester or clinical placement.

Need BLS Certification for Normandale?

If you’re attending Normandale Community College and your program requires BLS Provider certification, In-Pulse CPR offers multiple American Heart Association BLS classes throughout the Twin Cities.

Find an Upcoming Minnesota BLS CPR Class

Choose a convenient location and class date, select BLS Provider, and register online.

Updated 2026: This article has been substantially revised and updated in 2026 to reflect current Normandale Community College nursing CPR requirements, current American Heart Association BLS terminology, and current In-Pulse CPR class information.

Lowering your Cholesterol

How to Lower Your Cholesterol: Practical Steps for Better Heart Health

Written by Carin Mangimeli

Hearing that your cholesterol is high can be unsettling, but it is also useful information.

High cholesterol often causes no symptoms, yet over time it can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. The good news is that cholesterol can often be improved through lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both.

1. Move More

Regular physical activity can help improve cholesterol levels and overall heart health.

The American Heart Association recommends working toward about 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week for most adults. That could include brisk walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, gardening, or other activities you enjoy.

You do not have to start with long workouts.

A short walk after dinner, taking the stairs more often, or gradually adding activity throughout the week can be a practical place to begin.

The best exercise plan is usually one you can stick with.

2. Pay Attention to the Type of Fat You Eat

Not all fats affect cholesterol the same way.

Current American Heart Association guidance emphasizes replacing foods high in saturated fat with foods containing more unsaturated fats.

Foods higher in saturated fat can include:

  • Butter

  • Fatty cuts of meat

  • Processed meats

  • Full-fat dairy products

  • Some highly processed foods

Healthier choices can include:

  • Olive and other vegetable oils

  • Nuts and seeds

  • Fish

  • Avocados

  • Beans and legumes

The goal is not to eliminate fat from your diet. It is to choose healthier sources more often.

3. Eat More Fiber-Rich Foods

A heart-healthy eating pattern includes plenty of:

  • Vegetables

  • Fruits

  • Whole grains

  • Beans

  • Legumes

  • Nuts

  • Seeds

These foods provide fiber and other nutrients that support cardiovascular health.

Instead of focusing on one “magic” cholesterol-lowering food, think about the overall pattern of what you eat most days.

Small changes can add up, such as replacing refined grains with whole grains or adding beans, fruit, or vegetables to meals you already enjoy.

4. Limit Highly Processed Foods

The American Heart Association’s 2026 dietary guidance recommends choosing minimally processed foods more often and limiting ultraprocessed foods that are high in saturated fat, added sugar, sodium, or refined carbohydrates.

That does not mean every packaged food is unhealthy.

It means building most meals around foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, fish, and lean proteins instead of relying heavily on highly processed foods.

5. Avoid Tobacco and Nicotine

Smoking and vaping are harmful to cardiovascular health.

Smoking can lower HDL, often called the “good” cholesterol, while also increasing the risk of heart disease. Quitting tobacco can improve cardiovascular health in many ways beyond cholesterol alone.

If you use tobacco or nicotine products, talk with your healthcare professional about resources that can help you quit.

6. Reach or Maintain a Healthy Weight

For people who are overweight, even modest weight loss may help improve cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular risk.

The goal should not be crash dieting.

A more sustainable approach combines healthy eating, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and gradual changes that can be maintained over time.

7. Don’t Ignore Sleep

Sleep is increasingly recognized as part of heart health.

The American Heart Association recommends most adults aim for 7 to 9 hours of restful sleep each night. Poor or irregular sleep has been associated with less favorable cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Creating a consistent bedtime and wake time can be one simple place to start.

8. Know Your Numbers

Cholesterol is more complicated than one total cholesterol number.

Your healthcare professional may look at:

  • LDL cholesterol

  • HDL cholesterol

  • Triglycerides

  • Non-HDL cholesterol

  • Family history

  • Blood pressure

  • Diabetes

  • Smoking history

  • Age and other cardiovascular risk factors

The 2026 cholesterol guideline also recommends considering lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), testing at least once in a lifetime because inherited elevated Lp(a) can increase cardiovascular risk.

Your cholesterol results should therefore be interpreted as part of your overall cardiovascular risk, not as an isolated number.

9. Take Medication If Your Healthcare Professional Recommends It

Lifestyle changes are important, but they are not always enough.

Some people have high cholesterol because of genetics or have cardiovascular risk factors that make cholesterol-lowering medication appropriate.

Medications such as statins and other lipid-lowering treatments can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk when used appropriately.

If medication is prescribed, take it as directed and talk with your healthcare professional before stopping or changing it.

Start With One Change

Lowering cholesterol does not require changing everything overnight.

You might begin by:

  • Walking more often

  • Replacing butter with an unsaturated oil

  • Adding vegetables to one more meal each day

  • Choosing whole grains more often

  • Quitting tobacco

  • Improving your sleep routine

  • Taking prescribed medication consistently

The most effective plan is one you can maintain.

High Cholesterol Is a Reason to Pay Attention, Not Panic

High cholesterol is an important cardiovascular risk factor, but it is also something that can often be managed.

Work with your healthcare professional to understand your numbers and decide which lifestyle changes, medications, or additional testing are appropriate for you.

Heart health is built over time, and small improvements made consistently can make a meaningful difference.

Updated 2026: This article was originally written by Carin Mangimeli and has been reviewed and substantially updated in 2026 to reflect current American Heart Association guidance and the 2026 AHA/ACC guideline for cholesterol and dyslipidemia management.

The Joy of Living in Minnesota

CPR classes in Minnesota

Written by Laura Frost

Minnesota has a personality all its own.

It is a place where a summer afternoon can mean paddling across a quiet lake, fall brings brilliant color to the woods, and winter turns frozen lakes into fishing spots, skating rinks, and snow-covered playgrounds.

From the energy of Minneapolis and St. Paul to small towns, forests, farmland, and the North Shore of Lake Superior, Minnesota offers a distinctive mix of city life and easy access to the outdoors.

More Than 10,000 Lakes

Minnesota’s best-known nickname is “The Land of 10,000 Lakes,” but the state actually has 11,842 lakes larger than 10 acres.

Water is woven into everyday life here.

Depending on the season, Minnesotans can be found:

  • Boating
  • Canoeing and kayaking
  • Fishing
  • Swimming
  • Paddleboarding
  • Waterskiing
  • Ice fishing
  • Skating

Minnesota is also home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River and shares the spectacular shoreline of Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes.

For many residents, you don’t have to travel very far before the city fades and water, woods, or open country takes over.

A State With Plenty of Room to Explore

Minnesota covers nearly 87,000 square miles, making it the 12th-largest state by total area.

Its landscapes change dramatically from one end of the state to another.

Northern Minnesota is known for forests, lakes, rocky shorelines, and wilderness. Central Minnesota is dotted with lakes and farmland, while southern and western portions of the state open into agricultural land and prairie.

Wildlife includes white-tailed deer, black bears, moose, wolves, bald eagles, wild turkeys, waterfowl, and countless other species.

That variety helps make the outdoors part of Minnesota life rather than something reserved for an occasional vacation.

Nearly 6 Million Minnesotans Call It Home

Minnesota has grown considerably since this article was first written.

The U.S. Census Bureau estimated Minnesota’s population at about 5.83 million people in 2025, while Minnesota’s own State Demographic Center estimated approximately 5.89 million using a different methodology and reference date.

The state’s largest cities include Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Bloomington, and Duluth.

But much of Minnesota’s character also comes from its smaller cities and towns, where local festivals, lakes, schools, churches, community organizations, and high school sports remain important parts of everyday life.

Minnesota Has a Rich History

Minnesota’s history began long before it became a state in 1858.

The Dakota and Ojibwe peoples have deep historical and cultural ties to the land, and their communities remain an important part of Minnesota today.

European settlement later changed the region dramatically, bringing waves of immigrants who helped shape the state’s farming communities, cities, industries, food traditions, and cultural identity.

One familiar name connected to Minnesota history is Laura Ingalls Wilder.

Wilder was actually born in Pepin, Wisconsin, in 1867, but her family later lived near Walnut Grove, Minnesota. Her experiences there became the setting for On the Banks of Plum Creek, one of the books in the Little House series.

A Remarkable Music and Arts Legacy

Minnesota has produced an impressive collection of musicians, performers, and artists.

Prince transformed popular music from his home base in Minneapolis. Bob Dylan was born in Duluth and grew up in Hibbing. The state also has connections to performers and bands including Judy Garland, The Replacements, Soul Asylum, and many others.

The Twin Cities continue to support a strong theater, music, museum, and arts community.

Visitors and residents can explore everything from the Minnesota Orchestra and major museums to independent theaters, neighborhood art events, and the annual Minnesota Fringe Festival.

Minnesota Loves Its Sports

Professional sports are another big part of life in Minnesota.

The state is home to the:

  • Minnesota Vikings
  • Minnesota Twins
  • Minnesota Timberwolves
  • Minnesota Lynx
  • Minnesota Wild

College, high school, youth, and recreational sports are equally woven into communities throughout the state.

And of course, when winter arrives, hockey moves to a different level entirely.

The Great Minnesota Get-Together

Few events capture Minnesota quite like the Minnesota State Fair.

For nearly two weeks near the end of summer, the fair brings together agriculture, food, live music, exhibits, rides, competitions, and some wonderfully unusual Minnesota traditions.

Visitors come for everything from food on a stick and crop art to livestock exhibits and the famous butter sculptures.

For many Minnesota families, going to the State Fair isn’t simply entertainment. It’s an annual tradition.

Four Very Different Seasons

Living in Minnesota means embracing seasonal change.

Summer brings long days at the lake. Fall transforms the trees. Winter can bring serious cold and snow. Spring eventually arrives with that unmistakable feeling that everyone has earned it.

Minnesotans don’t necessarily retreat indoors when winter comes. They adapt.

Cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, hockey, sledding, snowshoeing, and ice fishing give residents plenty of reasons to get outside even when the lakes are frozen.

Then the first warm days of spring arrive, patios fill up, boats return to the water, and Minnesota begins the cycle again.

Why People Love Living in Minnesota

There isn’t one reason people enjoy Minnesota.

For some, it’s the lakes.

For others, it’s a cabin up north, a neighborhood in Minneapolis or St. Paul, a quiet small town, a favorite state park, a summer evening on the water, or a family tradition passed down for generations.

Minnesota offers urban neighborhoods and wilderness, professional sports and community festivals, thriving healthcare and business centers, farmland and forests, all within the same state.

And with 11,842 lakes, you’re rarely very far from somewhere worth putting a chair near the water.

Proud to Serve Minnesota Communities

In-Pulse CPR has been providing CPR and emergency-response training to Minnesota communities for many years.

Our American Heart Association CPR, BLS, AED, and First Aid classes help healthcare professionals, students, workplaces, and community members prepare to respond when an emergency happens.

Find an Upcoming Minnesota CPR Class

Whether you’ve lived in Minnesota your entire life or recently made the state your home, being prepared to help someone in your community is one more way to take care of the place you call home.

Updated 2026: This article was originally written by Laura Frost and has been substantially revised and updated in 2026 with current Minnesota population information, corrected historical details, and updated information about the state’s culture, recreation, and communities.

Top 10 Life-Saving First Aid Tips for Everyday Emergencies

Understanding First Aid Basics

First aid is the immediate care given to someone who is injured or suddenly becomes ill before professional medical help is available. Knowing a few life-saving first aid tips can help you respond quickly, prevent an injury from becoming worse, and in some situations, help save a life.

One common misconception is that first aid requires advanced medical knowledge. In reality, many important first aid actions are simple, including calling 911, controlling bleeding, helping someone who is choking, using an AED, or providing CPR when needed.

The most important first step is to stay calm and assess the situation. Make sure the area is safe for you to approach, check the person for responsiveness and normal breathing, and determine whether emergency medical services are needed. Avoid rushing into a dangerous situation or attempting treatment beyond your level of training.

Even basic first aid knowledge can make a major difference during the critical minutes before emergency responders arrive.

Key First Aid Tips for Common Emergencies

Everyday emergencies can happen at home, at work, in public places, or while traveling. Knowing how to respond during the first few minutes can help prevent further injury and give professional responders valuable time to arrive.

1. Choking: Act Quickly

If someone cannot breathe, speak, or cough effectively, they may have a completely blocked airway. For a conscious adult or child with severe choking, begin appropriate choking care and continue until the object is expelled or the person becomes unresponsive.

If the person becomes unresponsive, call 911, begin CPR, and use an AED if one is available. <– Helpful life-saving first aid tips

2. Severe Bleeding: Apply Direct Pressure

For serious bleeding, place clean gauze or cloth over the wound and apply firm, steady pressure. Maintain pressure until the bleeding stops or emergency medical help takes over.

For life-threatening bleeding from an arm or leg that cannot be controlled with direct pressure, a properly applied tourniquet may be necessary.

3. Burns: Cool the Burn

For a minor thermal burn, cool the affected area under cool running water for about 20 minutes. Remove jewelry or tight items near the burn before swelling begins.

Do not apply ice, butter, grease, or other home remedies to the burn. Seek emergency care for severe, deep, electrical, chemical, or extensive burns.

4. Cuts and Scrapes: Clean and Cover

Wash your hands before treating a minor wound. Rinse the area with clean running water, gently remove visible debris, and cover the wound with a sterile dressing or bandage.

Seek medical attention for deep wounds, uncontrolled bleeding, animal or human bites, or wounds that may require stitches.

5. Sudden Cardiac Arrest: Start CPR and Use an AED

If an adult suddenly collapses, is unresponsive, and is not breathing normally, call 911 and begin CPR immediately. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of approximately 100 to 120 compressions per minute.

Use an AED as soon as one becomes available and follow its voice or visual instructions.

6. Suspected Heart Attack: Call 911

Heart attack symptoms can include chest pressure or discomfort, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, weakness, or pain spreading to the arm, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

Do not attempt to drive the person to the hospital unless emergency medical services are unavailable. Calling 911 allows treatment to begin before the patient reaches the hospital.

7. Stroke: Recognize the Warning Signs

Use the FAST warning signs:

  • F – Face: Is one side of the face drooping?
  • A – Arms: Is one arm weak or numb?
  • S – Speech: Is speech slurred or difficult?
  • T – Time: Call 911 immediately.

Note the time the symptoms first appeared or the last time the person was known to be well. This information can be important for treatment decisions.

8. Seizure: Protect the Person From Injury

Move nearby objects away and protect the person’s head if possible. Do not restrain them and never place anything in their mouth.

After the seizure ends, check their breathing and stay with them. Call 911 if the seizure lasts five minutes or longer, repeats without recovery, occurs in water, causes injury, or involves someone who is pregnant or experiencing a first seizure.

9. Poisoning: Get Expert Help

If you suspect poisoning, do not automatically induce vomiting or give the person food or drink. Remove the person from the source of exposure when it can be done safely. Here is another life-saving first aid tip.

Call 911 for life-threatening symptoms. For other suspected poisonings in the United States, contact Poison Control for instructions specific to the substance involved.

10. Heat-Related Illness: Cool the Person Quickly

Move someone experiencing heat illness to a cooler area, loosen unnecessary clothing, and begin cooling them.

Confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, or other signs of heat stroke require immediate emergency medical care. Call 911 and begin rapid cooling while waiting for responders.

Knowing these basic first aid steps can help you move from bystander to responder when an emergency happens. The best preparation, however, is hands-on training that allows you to practice CPR, AED use, choking care, bleeding control, and other lifesaving skills before you ever need them.

When to Seek Professional Help

First aid can provide important care during the first few minutes of an emergency, but it is not a replacement for professional medical treatment. Some injuries and illnesses require immediate help from emergency medical services.

Call 911 right away if someone:

  • Is unconscious or difficult to wake
  • Is not breathing normally or is struggling to breathe
  • Has signs of a heart attack or stroke
  • Has severe or uncontrolled bleeding
  • Experiences a serious allergic reaction
  • Has a seizure lasting five minutes or longer
  • Has a severe burn or electrical injury
  • Has a suspected head, neck, or spinal injury
  • Shows signs of severe poisoning
  • Suddenly becomes confused, weak, or seriously ill

When calling 911, give the dispatcher clear and accurate information. Provide your location, describe what happened, explain the person’s condition, and follow the dispatcher’s instructions.

If CPR, an AED, bleeding control, or other first aid is needed, begin care while someone else calls 911 whenever possible. Continue helping until emergency responders arrive and take over.

Preparing for Emergencies

The best time to prepare for an emergency is before one happens. A well-stocked first aid kit, basic training, and occasional practice can make it much easier to respond quickly when someone is injured or becomes seriously ill. Our life-saving first aid tips can help if you learn what do do in advance of an emergency.

Keep a first aid kit at home and in your vehicle and check it periodically for missing or expired supplies. A basic kit should include items such as:

  • Adhesive bandages in several sizes
  • Sterile gauze pads and medical tape
  • Disposable gloves
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Scissors and tweezers
  • A cold pack
  • A CPR face shield or breathing barrier
  • Emergency contact information
  • Any personal medications or emergency supplies your household may need

When traveling, consider adding supplies appropriate for your destination, planned activities, weather conditions, and how far you may be from medical care.

Supplies are useful, but training is even more important that is why we published these helpful life-saving first aid tips . A hands-on CPR, AED, and First Aid course gives you the opportunity to practice lifesaving skills before you need them in a real emergency. Videos and online resources can be helpful refreshers, but they should not replace practical training when hands-on instruction is available.

First aid skills can fade over time, so review them regularly and renew your certification when needed. A few minutes of preparation today can make a significant difference when an everyday emergency suddenly becomes a serious one.

The Nursing Shortage in 2026: Why Nurses Are Still in High Demand

The nursing shortage has been discussed for decades, but in 2026 the issue is far from over.

An aging population, retiring healthcare workers, growing demand for medical care, burnout, and regional workforce shortages continue to put pressure on hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare organizations throughout the United States.

At the same time, the nursing shortage isn’t as simple as saying America is short a certain number of nurses everywhere. Some parts of the country have a much greater need than others.

Are Nurses Still in Demand?

Yes.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of registered nurses to grow 5% from 2024 through 2034, faster than the average for all occupations.

Even more significant, approximately 189,100 RN job openings are projected each year during that period. Many of those openings will result from nurses retiring, changing occupations, or otherwise leaving the workforce.

That means healthcare organizations don’t simply need nurses for newly created jobs. They also need a steady supply of nurses to replace those leaving existing positions.

Is There Really a Nursing Shortage?

Yes, but the shortage is not evenly distributed.

Federal workforce projections from the Health Resources and Services Administration anticipate continued shortages of registered nurses nationally through 2038.

HRSA currently projects a nationwide shortage of approximately 108,960 full-time-equivalent registered nurses by 2038. Rural and nonmetropolitan communities are expected to experience particularly significant challenges, with an estimated 11% RN shortage in nonmetropolitan areas, compared with about 2% in metropolitan areas.

Some states are also projected to experience much larger shortages than others.

This means a nurse may encounter a very different employment market depending on where they live, their specialty, and the healthcare setting in which they work.

Why Does the Nursing Shortage Continue?

There isn’t one single cause.

Several forces are occurring at the same time.

An Aging Population

As Americans live longer, more people require healthcare services for chronic illnesses, surgeries, rehabilitation, home health, and long-term care.

The aging Baby Boomer generation is increasing demand for healthcare at the same time many experienced nurses are approaching retirement themselves.

Nurses Are Leaving the Workforce

Retirement isn’t the only reason nursing positions become available.

Nurses may move into different healthcare roles, reduce their hours, change careers, or leave bedside nursing because of workload and burnout.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that a large portion of projected RN openings will come from the need to replace workers who leave the occupation or labor force.

Nursing Schools Have Limits Too

Training more nurses sounds like an obvious solution, but nursing schools face their own challenges.

Programs need qualified faculty, clinical training sites, classroom space, and other resources before they can expand enrollment.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing continues to identify nursing-school capacity and faculty shortages as important obstacles to producing enough new nurses to meet workforce demand.

What Does a Nursing Shortage Mean for Patient Care?

Adequate staffing matters because nurses are involved in nearly every part of patient care.

Nurses monitor patients, administer medications, communicate changes in condition, coordinate care, educate families, perform procedures, and respond when emergencies occur.

When staffing becomes stretched, each nurse may be responsible for more patients and competing priorities.

That can contribute to:

  • Increased workload

  • Greater physical and emotional stress

  • Less time available for individual patients

  • Higher risk of burnout

  • Difficulty filling shifts

  • Increased reliance on overtime or temporary staffing

The effects can ripple throughout an organization. Nursing shortages don’t affect only nurses. They can affect physicians, other healthcare professionals, hospital operations, and ultimately the patients receiving care.

Rural Communities Face an Even Bigger Challenge

One of the most important changes in how we understand today’s nursing shortage is recognizing that location matters.

HRSA projects that by 2038 the RN shortage will be substantially greater in nonmetropolitan communities than in metropolitan areas.

A major metropolitan hospital and a rural community hospital may therefore face very different staffing realities.

This is also why national numbers don’t tell the entire story.

Nursing Still Offers Significant Career Opportunities

For someone considering nursing as a career, continued demand can translate into opportunities across many healthcare environments.

Registered nurses work in:

  • Hospitals

  • Medical clinics

  • Emergency departments

  • Surgery centers

  • Long-term care facilities

  • Home healthcare

  • Schools

  • Public health

  • Rehabilitation facilities

  • Hospice and palliative care

  • Community health organizations

Advanced nursing roles are expanding even faster. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives to grow 35% between 2024 and 2034.

Healthcare needs aren’t disappearing, and nurses remain at the center of delivering that care.

CPR Skills Are an Important Part of Healthcare Training

Nursing students and working nurses are frequently required to maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification as part of their education, clinical requirements, or employment.

BLS training prepares healthcare professionals to respond to cardiac arrest and other life-threatening emergencies using CPR, AEDs, rescue breathing, and team-based resuscitation skills.

In-Pulse CPR provides American Heart Association BLS Provider classes for nursing students, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.

Find an Upcoming BLS CPR Class Near You

Whether you’re preparing to enter nursing school, beginning clinical rotations, or renewing your certification as an experienced nurse, maintaining strong CPR and BLS skills is an important part of being prepared for a medical emergency.

The Nursing Shortage Isn’t Going Away Overnight

Predictions made years ago about the nursing shortage didn’t perfectly forecast today’s workforce, and future projections will continue to change.

What is clear in 2026 is that healthcare organizations continue to need nurses, tens of thousands of RN positions must be filled each year, and shortages remain particularly significant in certain states and rural communities.

For future nurses, that continuing demand also means an opportunity to enter a profession that remains essential to American healthcare.

Updated 2026: This article has been substantially revised and updated in 2026 using current nursing workforce projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Health Resources and Services Administration, and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Older projections and links from the original article have been removed or replaced with current workforce information.

What Does CPR Actually Mean? And How It Saves Lives

By Mollie Bowman, Founder of In-Pulse CPR

Updated in 2026 to reflect current American Heart Association CPR and AED guidance.

We hear the acronym CPR all the time, but what does it actually mean, and what is it doing during a cardiac arrest?

CPR stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. It does not usually restart the heart by itself. Instead, high-quality chest compressions act as a temporary pump, helping move oxygen-rich blood to the brain, heart, and other vital organs until an AED or emergency medical care can take over.

According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR can double or triple a person’s chance of surviving cardiac arrest.

What Does CPR Stand For?

Cardio = Heart

The heart normally pumps blood throughout the body around the clock.

During cardiac arrest, the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively. Within seconds, the person may collapse, become unresponsive, and stop breathing normally or begin gasping.

Without circulation, the brain and other organs are quickly deprived of oxygen.

Pulmonary = Lungs

The lungs bring oxygen into the body and remove carbon dioxide.

When cardiac arrest occurs, some oxygen remains in the blood and lungs for a short time. Chest compressions help move that oxygen-containing blood to the brain and other vital organs.

That is one reason CPR needs to begin as quickly as possible.

Resuscitation = Restoring Vital Function

During CPR, the rescuer’s hands temporarily take over part of the heart’s job.

Each chest compression squeezes the heart and helps circulate blood. CPR keeps some blood moving while someone calls 911, retrieves an AED, and waits for emergency medical services.

Does CPR Restart the Heart?

Usually, no.

One of the biggest misconceptions about CPR is that chest compressions restart the heart. CPR’s main job is to buy time.

An Automated External Defibrillator, or AED, can analyze the person’s heart rhythm and determine whether a shock is needed.

If the person has a shockable rhythm, the AED may deliver a shock that allows the heart’s electrical system an opportunity to return to an effective rhythm.

That is why CPR and AED use work together.

CPR keeps blood moving. The AED treats certain dangerous heart rhythms.

What Should You Do If Someone Suddenly Collapses?

If an adult or teenager suddenly collapses:

1. Check for Responsiveness

Tap the person’s shoulder and shout.

If they do not respond and are not breathing normally, or are only gasping, suspect cardiac arrest.

2. Call 911 and Get an AED

Call 911 immediately or tell someone nearby to call.

If another person is available, send them to retrieve the nearest AED.

3. Start CPR

Place your hands in the center of the chest and push hard and fast.

For an adult, current American Heart Association guidance recommends:

  • 100 to 120 compressions per minute

  • At least 2 inches deep

  • Allowing the chest to fully recoil after each compression

  • Keeping interruptions as short as possible

If you are not trained in conventional CPR, Hands-Only CPR is recommended for an adult or teenager who suddenly collapses.

4. Use the AED as Soon as It Arrives

Turn the AED on and follow its voice or visual instructions.

The AED will analyze the heart rhythm and tell you whether a shock is needed. You do not have to make that decision yourself.

After a shock, or if the AED says no shock is advised, immediately resume CPR when instructed.

Why CPR Training Matters

More than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside hospitals in the United States each year.

The person standing nearby when it happens may not be a doctor, nurse, or paramedic.

It may be a spouse, coworker, friend, neighbor, or stranger.

Knowing how to recognize cardiac arrest, call 911, perform CPR, and use an AED can turn a bystander into an active rescuer during the minutes before professional help arrives.

CPR Is About Buying Time

A simple way to remember CPR is:

Cardio: the heart
Pulmonary: the lungs
Resuscitation: helping restore life-sustaining circulation

CPR keeps blood moving when the heart cannot.

An AED may provide the shock needed to treat certain abnormal heart rhythms.

Together, early CPR and rapid AED use give someone experiencing cardiac arrest a much better chance of survival.

Learn CPR Before You Need It

In-Pulse CPR offers hands-on American Heart Association CPR, BLS, AED, and First Aid classes designed to help students build the confidence to respond during a real emergency.

Find an Upcoming CPR Class Near You

You may never need to use CPR.

But if someone suddenly collapses in front of you, knowing what to do can make all the difference.

Updated 2026: This article was originally written by Mollie Bowman and has been reviewed and updated in 2026 to reflect current American Heart Association guidance for CPR, cardiac arrest recognition, chest compressions, and AED use.

Automated External Defibrillator’s and the Workplace: It one needed?

Written by Laura Frost

Most workplaces have a first aid kit.

But what happens if an employee, customer, or visitor suddenly collapses from cardiac arrest?

Bandages and antiseptic aren’t going to help restart a heart. That’s where an Automated External Defibrillator, or AED, becomes critically important.

The American Heart Association reports that approximately 10,000 cardiac arrests occur in the workplace each year. Immediate CPR and use of an AED can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival.

That makes an AED much more than another piece of safety equipment.

It can be the equipment that saves a life.

What Happens During Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively.

The person typically:

  • Suddenly collapses
  • Becomes unresponsive
  • Is not breathing normally or is only gasping

Cardiac arrest is different from a heart attack.

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to part of the heart is blocked. A person experiencing a heart attack may still be awake and breathing.

During cardiac arrest, the heart is no longer pumping effectively, and the person needs immediate help.

Every Minute Matters

When someone suffers cardiac arrest, waiting for emergency responders without beginning care wastes valuable time.

The American Heart Association’s Chain of Survival emphasizes:

  1. Recognizing cardiac arrest and activating the emergency response system
  2. Starting high-quality CPR
  3. Providing rapid defibrillation
  4. Continuing advanced resuscitation and post-cardiac-arrest care

An AED allows people who are already at the workplace to provide potentially lifesaving defibrillation while emergency medical services are on the way.

What Does an AED Do?

An AED is a computerized medical device designed to analyze the heart rhythm of a person experiencing cardiac arrest.

If the AED detects a rhythm that can be treated with defibrillation, it can deliver an electrical shock intended to help restore an effective heart rhythm.

Modern AEDs provide step-by-step voice or visual instructions.

The rescuer doesn’t have to diagnose the heart rhythm or decide whether the person needs a shock.

The AED analyzes the rhythm and tells you what to do.

Why AEDs Belong in the Workplace

Cardiac arrest can happen almost anywhere:

  • Offices
  • Warehouses
  • Manufacturing facilities
  • Schools
  • Churches
  • Hotels
  • Restaurants
  • Retail businesses
  • Construction sites
  • Fitness facilities

Having an AED readily available can shorten the time between collapse and defibrillation.

OSHA encourages workplace AED programs and notes that public-access defibrillation programs can reduce the time required to provide defibrillation by approximately three to five minutes.

Those minutes can matter enormously during cardiac arrest.

An AED Is Only Part of the Plan

Simply hanging an AED cabinet on the wall isn’t enough.

A strong workplace emergency response program should include:

  • An accessible AED
  • Employees trained in CPR and AED use
  • A clearly identified AED location
  • Regular checks of AED batteries and electrode pads
  • An emergency response plan
  • Employees who know how to activate 911 quickly

OSHA recommends that workplaces providing AEDs designate employees to use them and provide training so workers know how to respond correctly.

AEDs are designed to be straightforward to operate, but training helps people respond with greater confidence when an actual emergency occurs.

What Should You Do If Someone Collapses at Work?

If an adult suddenly collapses and is unresponsive and not breathing normally:

1. Call 911.

Have someone call 911 and send another person to retrieve the AED.

2. Begin CPR.

Push hard and fast in the center of the chest.

3. Use the AED as soon as it arrives.

Turn it on and follow its instructions.

4. Continue CPR.

Resume CPR when instructed and continue following the AED prompts until EMS personnel take over or the person begins showing signs of life.

The AED will determine whether a shock is appropriate.

Do Workplaces Have to Have an AED?

There is not a general OSHA standard requiring every workplace in the United States to have an AED.

OSHA does, however, encourage AED availability in workplaces and provides guidance for establishing workplace AED programs.

Requirements can also vary depending on the type of facility and state or local laws.

Regardless of whether an AED is legally required, employers should consider an important question:

If someone suffered cardiac arrest in our workplace today, how quickly could we begin CPR and get an AED to them?

If the answer isn’t clear, it’s worth reviewing your emergency plan.

CPR and AED Training Can Prepare Your Workplace

Buying an AED is an excellent first step.

Training employees to recognize cardiac arrest, perform CPR, and confidently use that AED completes the picture.

In-Pulse CPR provides American Heart Association CPR and AED training for individuals, employees, and businesses.

We also provide private onsite CPR training for organizations that want to prepare multiple employees at the same time.

Learn More About Onsite CPR and AED Training

A cardiac arrest emergency gives very little warning.

Having trained employees and an accessible AED means your workplace doesn’t have to start from zero when every minute counts.

Updated 2026: This article was originally written by Laura Frost and has been reviewed and updated in 2026 to reflect current American Heart Association CPR/AED guidance and current workplace AED information.

Century College Students: BLS CPR Certification in Minnesota

If you’re a Century College student who needs BLS CPR certification for your program, In-Pulse CPR offers convenient American Heart Association BLS Provider classes throughout the Twin Cities.

Century College specifically lists American Heart Association BLS Provider certification for its nursing program, and BLS certification is also required in several other healthcare programs.

Which CPR Class Should Century College Students Take?

If your Century College program requires BLS certification, register for our:

American Heart Association BLS Provider Class

This is the healthcare-level CPR certification commonly required for nursing and other clinical programs.

The class includes hands-on training in:

  • Adult, child, and infant CPR

  • AED use

  • Choking response

  • High-quality chest compressions

  • Rescue breathing

  • Two-rescuer CPR

  • Team-based BLS skills

After successfully completing the course, you’ll receive an American Heart Association BLS Provider eCard, typically valid for two years.

Century College Nursing Students: Century College currently specifies American Heart Association BLS Provider certification and notes that Red Cross certification is not accepted for the nursing program.

CPR Classes Convenient for Century College Students

In-Pulse CPR offers classes at multiple locations throughout the Twin Cities, including options convenient for students attending Century College.

Instead of waiting for a limited school-based class, you can choose from multiple dates, times, and classroom locations.

View Upcoming Minnesota BLS CPR Classes

When registering, select the BLS Provider option.

Why Century College Students Choose In-Pulse CPR

  • American Heart Association BLS Provider certification

  • Instructor-led, in-person training

  • Hands-on CPR and AED practice

  • Multiple Twin Cities classroom locations

  • Evening and weekend class options

  • Same-day or next-business-day AHA eCard processing

  • Classes for both first-time students and renewals

  • Student workbook included

Our goal is to make completing your CPR requirement simple while still giving you meaningful hands-on practice.

Does This Meet Century College Nursing Requirements?

Century College’s current nursing program information specifically identifies American Heart Association BLS Provider certification as the required CPR credential.

If your program instructions state that you need an AHA BLS Provider certification, our BLS Provider class is the course you should select.

Because individual program and clinical-site requirements can change, students should always follow the most recent instructions provided by Century College.

Other Century College Programs Requiring BLS

BLS certification isn’t limited to nursing students.

Century College’s Medical Assistant program requires CPR certification at the BLS healthcare-professional level by the end of the first semester.

Century’s Emergency Medical Technician program also requires a BLS for Healthcare Provider CPR card before completion of the EMT course.

Students in other Century College healthcare programs should check their specific program requirements before registering.

Is This an In-Person BLS Class?

Yes.

Our traditional BLS classes are instructor-led and completed in person, including the hands-on skills practice and evaluation.

If you prefer a traditional classroom experience rather than completing part of your training online, this is a good option.

When Will I Receive My BLS Card?

Most students receive their American Heart Association BLS Provider eCard the same day or by the next business day after successfully completing class.

Your AHA BLS Provider certification is generally valid for two years.

What Should I Bring?

Bring a valid photo ID and wear comfortable clothing because you’ll be practicing CPR skills on manikins.

Previous CPR experience is not required.

Need BLS Certification for Century College?

If you’re a Century College student and your program requires American Heart Association BLS Provider certification, In-Pulse CPR gives you multiple class options throughout the Twin Cities.

Find an Upcoming Minnesota BLS CPR Class

Choose the location, date, and time that work best for your schedule and register online.

Updated 2026: This article has been reviewed and updated for 2026 to reflect current Century College CPR/BLS program information and current American Heart Association BLS terminology.

What Should You Do for a Burn? First Aid Steps That Matter

By Carin Mangimeli

You touch a hot pan, spill boiling water, or brush against something hot, and suddenly your skin is burning. What should you do next?

The first few minutes matter. Proper burn first aid can help reduce pain and limit further injury.

1. Stop the Burning Process

First, remove the person from the source of the burn.

That may mean:

  • Moving a hand away from a hot surface
  • Getting away from steam or hot liquid
  • Removing hot or wet clothing that is not stuck to the skin
  • Moving away from flames or another heat source

Do not put yourself in danger while helping someone else.

2. Cool the Burn With Water

Once the heat source has been removed, cool the burn as soon as possible.

The American Heart Association recommends cooling thermal burns with clean cool or cold water for at least 10 minutes.

Running water is often the easiest option.

If running water is not available, a clean, cool compress may be used instead, but it should not be freezing cold.

Do Not Put Ice Directly on a Burn

It may seem logical to grab an ice cube or ice pack, but direct ice can further damage burned tissue.

The American Heart Association specifically recommends not applying ice directly to a burn.

For larger burns, be careful not to cool so much of the body that the person becomes hypothermic. This is especially important with children.

3. Cover the Burn Loosely

After cooling the burn, it may be helpful to cover the area loosely with a sterile, dry dressing.

Avoid wrapping the area tightly.

The purpose of the dressing is to help protect the damaged skin from contamination and additional injury.

4. Don’t Break the Blisters

Burn blisters should generally be left intact.

Although it may be tempting to pop a blister, the skin over the blister helps protect the tissue underneath. Current first aid guidance recommends leaving burn blisters intact because doing so can improve healing and reduce pain.

If a blister breaks on its own, keep the area clean and protect it with a clean dressing.

Skip the Home Remedies

Burns have attracted plenty of home remedies over the years.

You may have heard recommendations involving:

  • Butter
  • Oils
  • Toothpaste
  • Petroleum jelly
  • Various foods or household products

These are not recommended as immediate first aid for a burn.

Your priorities should be much simpler:

Stop the burning, cool the burn, and protect it.

The AHA also advises against using natural remedies such as honey or potato-peel dressings for routine burn treatment.

When Should You Seek Medical Care for a Burn?

Not every tiny burn requires a trip to the emergency department, but some burns should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Seek medical attention for burns involving:

  • Blistering or broken skin
  • Difficulty breathing
  • The face or neck
  • The hands
  • The genitals
  • A large portion of the body
  • Any burn that otherwise causes concern

These are specifically identified in current AHA first aid guidance as burns that should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Call 911 for serious burns, breathing problems, significant electrical injuries, major trauma, or whenever the person’s condition appears life-threatening.

What About Electrical Burns?

Electrical injuries require extra caution.

Never touch a person who is still in contact with an electrical source.

Turn off the electricity first when it can be done safely. High-voltage electrical injuries, including contact with power lines, should be handled by emergency personnel.

Even when an electrical burn looks small on the surface, internal injuries may be much more serious. The American Heart Association recommends medical assessment after electrical shock because the extent of the injury may not be immediately visible.

A Simple Way to Remember Burn First Aid

For most thermal burns:

Remove. Cool. Cover.

  1. Remove the person from the heat source.
  2. Cool the burn with clean cool or cold water for at least 10 minutes.
  3. Cover loosely with a clean, dry sterile dressing.

And remember:

No ice. Don’t break blisters. Don’t reach for the butter.

First Aid Training Helps You Know What to Do

Burns are just one of many emergencies covered in a quality First Aid course.

Hands-on CPR and First Aid training can prepare you to respond to burns, bleeding, choking, medical emergencies, cardiac arrest, and other situations where knowing what to do can make a difference.

In-Pulse CPR offers American Heart Association CPR, AED, and First Aid training at convenient classroom locations.

Find an Upcoming CPR and First Aid Class

Learning first aid before an emergency happens can make those first few minutes much less uncertain.

Updated 2026: This article was originally written by Carin Mangimeli and has been reviewed and updated in 2026 to reflect current American Heart Association and American Red Cross first aid guidance for thermal burns.

Looking for Phlebotomy Classes Near Me? Don’t Forget Your BLS Certification

If you’re searching for phlebotomy classes near me, you’re probably getting ready to begin a new healthcare career.

While In-Pulse CPR does not offer phlebotomy training, we regularly provide another certification that many phlebotomy students and working phlebotomists need:

American Heart Association BLS Certification – Cost somewhere between $70-90

Some phlebotomy training programs require students to obtain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification before beginning clinical training, and employers may also require or prefer current BLS certification.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that phlebotomists may need Basic Life Support certification depending on the employer or position.

So while you’re comparing phlebotomy programs, this is a good time to check whether BLS CPR certification is also on your requirement list.

Do Phlebotomists Need CPR Certification?

There isn’t one nationwide CPR requirement that applies to every phlebotomist.

Requirements can depend on:

  • Your phlebotomy school or training program
  • Your clinical site
  • Your employer
  • The state where you work
  • The type of healthcare facility

Some training programs specifically require a current healthcare-provider CPR or BLS certification before students participate in clinical training.

Before registering for CPR, check your school’s requirements carefully.

If they ask for:

American Heart Association BLS Provider

then that’s the course you should select.

What Is BLS Certification?

BLS stands for Basic Life Support.

The American Heart Association BLS Provider course is designed for healthcare professionals and students entering healthcare environments.

Training includes:

  • Adult CPR
  • Child CPR
  • Infant CPR
  • AED use
  • Rescue breathing
  • Choking response
  • Two-rescuer CPR
  • Team-based resuscitation skills

In-Pulse CPR offers instructor-led, hands-on American Heart Association BLS Provider classes.

Why Would a Phlebotomist Need BLS?

Phlebotomists work directly with patients in medical environments.

A patient could experience a medical emergency in a:

  • Hospital
  • Clinic
  • Laboratory
  • Blood donation center
  • Physician’s office
  • Long-term care facility
  • Outpatient medical center

BLS training prepares healthcare workers to recognize cardiac arrest, perform high-quality CPR, use an AED, and work with other rescuers during an emergency.

Even when BLS is not specifically required by your state, your school, clinical facility, or employer may require it.

Looking for Phlebotomy School?

If your original search was for phlebotomy classes near you, you’ll still need to find a school or training provider that actually teaches phlebotomy.

When comparing programs, ask:

  1. Is the program accepted by employers in my area?
  2. Does it prepare me for a national phlebotomy certification exam?
  3. Does it include hands-on venipuncture practice?
  4. Does it include or require clinical experience?
  5. Does the program require CPR or BLS certification?
  6. If CPR is required, does it need to be American Heart Association BLS Provider?

That last question can save you from taking the wrong CPR course.

Already Enrolled in Phlebotomy Training?

If your phlebotomy school told you to obtain AHA BLS certification, In-Pulse CPR can help.

We offer American Heart Association BLS Provider classes at convenient locations in:

Classes include hands-on instruction and an American Heart Association BLS Provider eCard after successful completion.

Find an Upcoming BLS CPR Class Near You

Choose your state, location, and class date to register.

BLS for Phlebotomy Students

Phlebotomy may be your career goal, but CPR and emergency-response skills are an important part of working around patients.

If your school or employer requires American Heart Association BLS Provider certification, make sure you select the correct healthcare-level CPR class.

View Upcoming In-Pulse CPR Classes

USF Students: BLS CPR Certification in Tampa

Updated September 2026 with current University of South Florida program information.

If you’re a University of South Florida student who needs BLS CPR certification, In-Pulse CPR offers convenient American Heart Association BLS Provider classes throughout the Tampa Bay area.

We regularly train nursing students and other healthcare students who need current CPR certification for school, clinical rotations, healthcare employment, or program requirements.

Which CPR Class Should USF Students Take?

If your USF program requires BLS certification, the course you’re most likely looking for is:

American Heart Association BLS Provider

BLS is designed for healthcare professionals and students preparing to work in clinical settings.

Training includes:

  • Adult, child, and infant CPR

  • AED use

  • Rescue breathing

  • Choking response

  • Two-rescuer CPR

  • High-quality chest compressions

  • Team-based resuscitation skills

After successfully completing the course, students receive an American Heart Association BLS Provider eCard, typically valid for two years.

Does USF Require BLS Certification?

Requirements vary by college and program, so students should always follow the instructions provided by their specific USF department.

However, BLS certification is required in several USF Health programs.

For example, the USF College of Nursing Nurse Anesthesiology program currently requires Basic Life Support certification and specifically identifies American Heart Association CPR certification among its pre-program requirements.

USF’s Graduate Medical Education programs also require current BLS certification across all residency and fellowship programs.

If your program instructions specifically state:

American Heart Association BLS Provider

then our BLS Provider course is the appropriate certification.

If the wording is different, check with your program before registering.

Why USF Students Choose In-Pulse CPR

You do not necessarily have to wait for a CPR course offered through the university.

In-Pulse CPR gives students another convenient option with:

  • American Heart Association BLS Provider certification

  • Multiple Tampa Bay class locations

  • Classes offered throughout the month

  • Hands-on instructor-led training

  • Adult, child, and infant CPR practice

  • AED training

  • Classes for first-time and renewing students

  • Same-day or next-business-day eCard processing

  • Student workbook included

Our goal is to make completing your BLS requirement straightforward so you can focus on school and clinical training.

Convenient BLS Classes Near USF

In-Pulse CPR offers regularly scheduled classes throughout the Tampa Bay area.

Whether you’re attending USF Tampa, studying through USF Health, or completing clinical rotations elsewhere in the region, you can choose the class date and location that works best with your schedule.

View Upcoming Tampa Bay BLS CPR Classes

When registering, select the BLS Provider option.

What Should I Bring to Class?

Bring a valid photo ID and wear comfortable clothing because you will be practicing CPR skills on manikins.

No previous CPR experience is required.

Your workbook is included, and after successfully completing the course, you will receive your American Heart Association BLS Provider eCard.

Don’t Wait Until Your Clinical Deadline

Healthcare students often need to provide proof of current BLS certification before beginning clinical experiences, internships, or other program activities.

Waiting until the last minute can create unnecessary stress.

If your BLS certification is expiring soon or you have an upcoming clinical deadline, completing the course early can help ensure your certification is ready when your program requests it.

Need BLS Certification for USF?

In-Pulse CPR offers hands-on American Heart Association BLS classes throughout Tampa Bay for University of South Florida students and healthcare professionals.

Find an Upcoming BLS CPR Class

Choose your location, select your class, and register online.

Related Resources

Updated September 2026: This page has been revised with current University of South Florida healthcare-program information, updated BLS course details, and corrected Tampa Bay class-registration links. Because CPR requirements vary by USF program, students should always confirm the exact certification required by their department.

Ballpark CPR: Why Coaches, Parents, and Players Should Be Prepared

Baseball fields are usually associated with summer evenings, folding chairs, dusty cleats, and parents cheering from behind the fence.

But like any athletic setting, a ballpark is also a place where medical emergencies can happen.

Most baseball injuries are relatively minor: bruises, sprains, cuts, or the occasional collision. One much rarer emergency can happen when a baseball or other hard object strikes a player directly in the chest and triggers sudden cardiac arrest.

The condition is called commotio cordis.

When a Baseball Hit Becomes a Cardiac Emergency

Imagine a player standing at the plate.

The pitcher throws. Instead of connecting with the bat, the ball strikes the player’s chest.

He drops to the ground.

At first, people may assume he simply had the wind knocked out of him. But he doesn’t get back up. He is unresponsive and isn’t breathing normally.

That is the moment when people nearby need to recognize that something much more serious may be happening.

Commotio cordis can occur when a sudden blunt impact hits the chest during a very small, vulnerable portion of the heart’s electrical cycle. The impact can trigger a dangerous rhythm, most commonly ventricular fibrillation, even when the athlete does not have known heart disease.

It is rare, but baseball is one of the sports historically associated with the condition because of the speed and hardness of the ball.

Important: A player who collapses after being struck in the chest, becomes unresponsive, and is not breathing normally should be treated as being in cardiac arrest. Do not assume the player simply needs a few minutes to recover.

A Recent Baseball Example: Quinn Supnet

This is not just a theoretical emergency.

In March 2025, Texas high school baseball player Quinn Supnet suffered cardiac arrest following a collision during a baseball tournament. He was later diagnosed with commotio cordis.

An athletic trainer and Supnet’s aunt responded quickly. Their actions helped save his life.

The American Heart Association later recognized the rescuers for what they did.

Stories like Quinn’s are reminders that the people already standing at the field may have to provide the first lifesaving care. Paramedics are still on the way. CPR and an AED can be started immediately.

What to Do if a Player Suddenly Collapses

If a player or spectator collapses, is unresponsive, and is not breathing normally, act quickly.

Step What to Do Why It Matters
1. Recognize Check responsiveness and breathing Gasping is not normal breathing and can occur during cardiac arrest.
2. Call Call 911 Send emergency medical help immediately.
3. Compress Start CPR Chest compressions help keep blood moving to the brain and other organs.
4. Defibrillate Get and use the AED The AED analyzes the heart rhythm and determines whether a shock is needed.

If several people are present, give someone a specific job.

Instead of yelling, “Somebody call 911,” point to a person and say, “You, call 911.”

Send another person to retrieve the AED while CPR begins.

That small amount of organization can prevent everyone from assuming someone else is handling it.

Key Takeaway: Gasping is not normal breathing. If someone is unresponsive and only gasping, treat it as cardiac arrest and begin CPR.

Why the AED Matters So Much at a Ballpark

CPR helps circulate blood during cardiac arrest, but it does not normally correct the abnormal electrical rhythm causing the arrest.

That is where an automated external defibrillator, or AED, becomes important.

An AED analyzes the person’s heart rhythm and determines whether an electrical shock may help. The coach, parent, or bystander using the machine does not have to diagnose ventricular fibrillation.

Turn it on.

Attach the pads.

Follow the voice prompts.

The AED handles the complicated part.

For commotio cordis, where ventricular fibrillation may be involved, quick access to defibrillation can be especially important.

Having an AED Isn’t the Same as Having Quick Access to One

A baseball complex can technically “have an AED” and still be poorly prepared.

Imagine that the AED is mounted inside the school building 300 yards from the field.

Then imagine the school doors are locked during Saturday games.

Or nobody at the concession stand knows where the key is.

That AED isn’t nearly as useful as it appears on an emergency plan.

Before the season starts, someone should actually walk from the field to the AED and see how long it takes.

Ask:

  • Can the AED be reached quickly from every field?

  • Is it accessible during evening and weekend games?

  • Do coaches know exactly where it is?

  • Are the battery and electrode pads current?

  • Is the cabinet clearly marked?

The goal is not merely to own an AED. The goal is to get it to the person in cardiac arrest as quickly as possible.

Don’t Forget About Parents and Spectators

The players are not the only people who could experience a cardiac emergency.

A Saturday tournament may bring hundreds of parents, grandparents, coaches, officials, volunteers, and spectators to a sports complex.

Someone could suffer sudden cardiac arrest while sitting in the bleachers, standing at the concession stand, or walking through the parking lot.

More than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside hospitals in the United States each year. Immediate CPR can double or even triple the chance of survival.

That makes CPR and AED preparedness useful for everyone at the facility, not just the athletes.

What Coaches and Leagues Should Do Before the Season

A simple emergency plan can prevent confusion when something goes wrong.

Before the Season What to Check
CPR training Make sure coaches and key volunteers know CPR and AED use.
AED location Identify the closest AED to each playing field.
AED access Confirm it can be reached during nights and weekends.
Equipment check Inspect batteries, pads, and readiness indicators.
911 plan Decide who calls and what address or field number they should give.
EMS entrance Determine which gate or driveway an ambulance should use.
Practice Walk through the emergency plan before the first game.

These details may seem obvious when everyone is calm.

They become much harder to sort out when a child is lying unconscious at home plate and dozens of people are shouting.

Cardiac Emergency Response Plans Can Save Valuable Time

Schools and athletic organizations increasingly use a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan, sometimes called a CERP.

The idea is straightforward.

Everyone should know what happens if someone suddenly collapses.

Who recognizes the emergency?

Who calls 911?

Who starts CPR?

Who retrieves the AED?

Who meets the ambulance?

Who clears the area around the patient?

A written plan is useful, but practicing it is even better.

A five-minute drill at the beginning of the season can expose simple problems before they become serious ones. Maybe the AED cabinet is locked. Maybe nobody knows the field’s street address. Maybe the ambulance entrance is on the opposite side of the complex.

Those are much easier problems to fix before an emergency.

Do Chest Protectors Prevent Commotio Cordis?

Protective equipment is important in baseball and other youth sports, but it should not create a false sense of security.

Chest protection may reduce the risk of certain injuries, but commotio cordis has occurred even when athletes were wearing protective equipment.

That means prevention alone is not enough.

Athletic programs still need:

CPR-trained people

Quick AED access

A practiced emergency response plan

The best safety strategy uses all of them together.

Should Parents Learn CPR Too?

Absolutely.

Parents often spend hours around athletic fields throughout a season. They may be closer to a collapsed player or spectator than a coach or medical professional.

Knowing CPR means you don’t have to stand by waiting for someone else to take over.

And the skill isn’t limited to the baseball field.

The person you eventually help could be a coworker, neighbor, spouse, parent, child, or stranger.

If you’ve never taken a CPR class, or it has been a while since your last one, attending a hands-on CPR and AED course can give you a much clearer idea of what to do when those first few minutes matter most.

One Question Every Parent Can Ask

At your child’s next practice or game, take a look around and ask:

Where is the nearest AED?

If nobody knows, that’s worth addressing.

Most ballparks will never experience a cardiac arrest. Hopefully, the AED mounted at the facility will spend years doing nothing more exciting than collecting dust.

But if the day comes when someone needs it, knowing where it is, knowing CPR, and having a plan can make an enormous difference.

This article was refreshed in 2026 with updated information about commotio cordis, CPR, AED use, and cardiac emergency planning for youth sports.

Be Ready Before an Emergency Happens

In-Pulse CPR offers hands-on American Heart Association CPR and AED training for individuals, coaches, workplaces, and community groups.

Find a CPR Class Request Group Training

Rescue Breathing or CPR? What’s the Difference?

“Do I give breaths?”

“Do I start chest compressions?”

“What exactly is rescue breathing?”

These are common questions in CPR classes, and the terminology can sound more complicated than it really is.

The simplest way to understand it is this:

CPR is used when the heart is no longer pumping effectively. Rescue breathing is used when a person still has a pulse but isn’t breathing adequately.

There are some important differences depending on whether you are a trained healthcare provider or a member of the general public, but that basic idea is a good starting point.

When Do You Perform CPR?

CPR is performed when someone is in cardiac arrest.

For a teen or adult, that usually means the person:

  • Is unresponsive

  • Is not breathing normally or is only gasping

  • Shows signs of cardiac arrest

A healthcare professional trained to check a pulse should do so for no more than 10 seconds. If there is no definite pulse, CPR begins.

For most members of the public, the response is simpler. If an adult or teen suddenly collapses, is unresponsive, and isn’t breathing normally, call 911 and begin CPR rather than spending time trying to find a pulse.

CPR combines chest compressions with rescue breaths when conventional CPR is being performed.

For a single rescuer, the familiar adult CPR pattern remains:

30 chest compressions followed by 2 breaths.

The cycle continues until an AED is ready to use, emergency responders take over, the person begins showing signs of life, or the rescuer cannot continue.

What About Hands-Only CPR?

This is where some of the confusion comes from.

You may have heard that CPR no longer includes breaths. That’s not quite right.

Hands-Only CPR is CPR without rescue breaths. The American Heart Association recommends it as an option for an untrained bystander who sees a teen or adult suddenly collapse.

The basic response is:

Call 911 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest.

Hands-Only CPR makes it easier for a bystander to begin helping immediately rather than hesitating because they aren’t comfortable providing mouth-to-mouth breaths.

Traditional CPR with compressions and breaths is still taught and remains important, particularly for trained rescuers and in emergencies involving children, infants, drowning, respiratory problems, and other situations where lack of oxygen may have caused the arrest.

So What Is Rescue Breathing?

Rescue breathing is different from CPR because chest compressions are not being performed.

It is used when a person has a pulse but is not breathing normally or isn’t breathing at all.

In other words, the heart is still circulating blood, but the person needs help getting oxygen into the lungs.

This situation can occur with problems such as respiratory arrest, severe drug overdose, drowning, or other conditions that interfere with normal breathing.

Healthcare providers assess the person’s breathing and pulse and provide breaths when appropriate.

How Often Should Rescue Breaths Be Given?

Current American Heart Association guidance differs for adults and children.

Patient Rescue Breathing Rate
Adult 1 breath every 6 seconds
Child 1 breath every 2–3 seconds
Infant 1 breath every 2–3 seconds

That works out to approximately 10 breaths per minute for an adult and 20 to 30 breaths per minute for an infant or child.

Each breath should be delivered over about one second and should provide only enough air to produce visible chest rise.

More air is not better.

Giving breaths too quickly or forcefully can cause problems, which is why CPR training emphasizes controlled ventilation rather than taking the biggest breath possible and blowing hard.

The Old “Remember 5 Seconds” Rule Is Outdated

Older CPR instruction sometimes used shortcuts such as giving approximately one breath every five seconds regardless of age.

That is no longer current AHA guidance.

Today, the recommended rescue-breathing rate is slower for adults and considerably faster for children and infants.

That is one reason periodically refreshing CPR and BLS training is useful. The basic purpose of CPR hasn’t changed, but techniques and recommendations evolve as resuscitation research improves.

Why Do Children and Infants Receive More Breaths?

Cardiac arrest in adults frequently begins with a heart problem.

In children and infants, cardiac arrest is more often connected to a respiratory problem that eventually causes the heart rate to slow and circulation to fail.

That makes ventilation especially important in pediatric emergencies.

For an infant or child who has a pulse but isn’t breathing adequately, the AHA recommends providing one breath every 2 to 3 seconds while continuing to monitor the pulse and condition.

What About an Infant or Child With a Very Slow Heart Rate?

This is another important point for healthcare providers.

For an infant or child, having some pulse does not always mean that chest compressions can be avoided.

If the heart rate is less than 60 beats per minute with signs of poor perfusion despite adequate oxygenation and ventilation, healthcare providers begin CPR. Current pediatric BLS guidance continues to use this threshold.

That’s more specific than the old statement that “if an infant’s pulse goes to 60 or less, switch to CPR.”

The overall condition of the child and whether effective oxygenation and ventilation have been provided also matter.

How Much Air Should You Give?

One of the easiest mistakes to make is giving too much air.

You don’t need to fill the person’s lungs as much as possible.

Give each breath over about one second and watch the chest.

Once you see the chest begin to rise, you’ve delivered enough air.

That principle applies whether you are giving breaths to an adult, child, or infant.

The amount of air needed will naturally be much smaller for an infant than for an adult.

What if the Chest Doesn’t Rise?

If you’re providing rescue breaths and the chest does not rise, reposition the airway and try again.

For someone who is unresponsive, opening the airway usually involves placing the head in the proper position before delivering the breath.

If you’re performing CPR and the first rescue breath doesn’t cause chest rise, reposition the head before attempting the second breath.

A CPR class gives students a chance to practice this on a manikin, which makes the difference between “enough air” and “too much air” much easier to understand.

A Simple Way to Remember the Difference

If you want the shortest possible explanation, use this:

No effective heartbeat = CPR.

Heartbeat present but not breathing = rescue breathing.

For the general public, you usually won’t be expected to make that pulse determination yourself. If someone suddenly collapses, is unresponsive, and isn’t breathing normally, call 911 and follow the dispatcher’s instructions while beginning CPR.

For healthcare professionals, BLS training includes pulse checks, rescue-breathing rates, pediatric differences, and deciding when chest compressions should begin.

CPR Training Makes This Much Easier

Reading CPR instructions is useful, but practicing them is different.

In a hands-on CPR class, you can practice chest compressions, rescue breaths, AED use, airway positioning, and the differences between adult, child, and infant care.

That experience takes much of the uncertainty out of questions like, “Do I give breaths or do CPR?”

If you’re due for certification or simply want to be better prepared, consider taking an American Heart Association CPR or BLS class with In-Pulse CPR.

The goal isn’t to memorize a page full of numbers. It’s to recognize what is happening and know what to do next.

Originally written to answer a common CPR classroom question, this article was updated in 2026 to reflect current American Heart Association guidance for CPR and rescue breathing in adults, children, and infants.

Cardio Exercises that you can do At Home

Cardio Exercises You Can Do at Home

You do not need a treadmill, home gym or expensive equipment to get a good cardiovascular workout.

For many people, exercising at home is simply easier. There is no drive to the gym, no membership fee and no need to work around someone else’s schedule. A small area in the living room, basement, garage or even beside your bed can be enough.

The important part is finding activities that raise your heart rate and that you can do consistently.

The American Heart Association recommends that most adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, or a combination of the two. It also recommends spending less time sitting and moving more throughout the day.

You do not have to complete all of that exercise at once. Shorter sessions throughout the week can add up. The CDC notes that physical activity can be divided into smaller chunks that fit your schedule.

Here are several cardio exercises that can be done at home with little or no equipment.

1. Jump Rope

Jumping rope is simple, inexpensive and surprisingly challenging.

All you really need is a jump rope, a pair of supportive shoes and enough room to swing the rope safely. It can quickly raise your heart rate while also working your legs, shoulders and coordination.

If you have not jumped rope since childhood, start slowly. Try 20 to 30 seconds at a time followed by a short rest.

As you improve, you can experiment with alternating feet, high knees or longer intervals.

Jumping rope is a higher-impact activity, so it may not be comfortable for everyone. People with knee, ankle or joint problems may want to choose a lower-impact option.

2. Jumping Jacks

Jumping jacks have been around forever for a reason.

They require no equipment, take very little space and quickly get your entire body moving.

Start with short sets, such as 20 to 30 seconds, and rest as needed. You can add jumping jacks between other exercises to create a simple circuit.

If regular jumping jacks are uncomfortable, try a lower-impact version. Step one foot out to the side while raising your arms, return to the center and repeat with the other leg.

You still get continuous movement without repeatedly jumping off the floor.

3. Jogging or Marching in Place

Jogging in place is one of the easiest ways to add cardio without going anywhere.

You can do it while watching television, listening to music or waiting for dinner to finish cooking.

If jogging feels too strenuous, start by marching briskly in place. Raise your knees higher and move your arms to increase the intensity.

You can also alternate between one minute of faster movement and one minute at an easier pace.

This makes it easy to adjust the workout to your current fitness level.

4. Mountain Climbers

Mountain climbers combine cardiovascular exercise with core and upper-body work.

Start in a push-up position with your hands underneath your shoulders. Bring one knee toward your chest, return it and then bring the other knee forward.

You can perform the movement slowly or increase the pace as your fitness improves.

Mountain climbers place pressure on the wrists, shoulders and arms, so they may not be comfortable for everyone.

A modified version can be performed with your hands on a sturdy countertop, bench or other raised surface instead of the floor.

5. Stair Climbing

If your home has stairs, you already have a piece of cardio equipment.

Walking up and down a flight of stairs repeatedly can raise your heart rate quickly and strengthen your legs at the same time.

Begin at a comfortable pace and use the handrail when needed.

You can also simply walk up the stairs several extra times throughout the day instead of trying to complete one long workout.

As with any exercise involving stairs, pay attention to your footing and avoid rushing.

6. Dancing

Cardio does not have to look like a traditional workout.

Put on a few songs and move.

Dancing continuously for 10, 20 or 30 minutes can provide aerobic exercise without feeling like you’re counting repetitions or staring at a timer.

The exact style does not matter much. The goal is simply to keep moving enough to raise your breathing and heart rate.

It is also easy to adjust the intensity. Bigger arm movements, quicker steps and more continuous movement increase the effort.

7. Step-Ups

A sturdy step can turn into a simple home cardio station.

Step up with one foot, bring the other foot up, step back down and repeat.

Alternate which foot leads.

Start slowly until you are comfortable with your balance. Avoid using unstable stools, chairs or anything that could slide.

A bottom stair often works well because it is fixed in place and gives you a handrail nearby if needed.

8. Shadow Boxing

You do not need a punching bag to get a cardio workout from boxing movements.

Stand with your feet comfortably apart and throw controlled punches into the air. Add side-to-side movement, small steps and gentle squats as you become more comfortable.

Try 30 seconds of punching followed by 30 seconds of easy movement.

A few rounds can raise your heart rate quickly while working the shoulders, arms and core.

Avoid locking your elbows or throwing punches with so much force that you strain your shoulders.

9. Squat-to-Reach

A simple bodyweight squat can become a cardio exercise when performed continuously.

Stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart, lower into a comfortable squat and then stand while reaching your arms overhead.

Repeat at a steady pace.

You do not need to squat deeply. Use a range of motion that feels comfortable and controlled.

If you have balance concerns, perform the movement near a sturdy chair or counter.

10. Walk Around the House

This one sounds almost too simple, but it counts.

Walking through your home, hallway, basement or garage can add meaningful movement to your day.

Try walking briskly for 10 minutes before breakfast, during a work break or after dinner.

The American Heart Association specifically encourages people to sit less and move more, noting that even light activity is better than remaining sedentary.

On days when a harder workout is not realistic, walking is still worthwhile.

How hard should you exercise?

You do not need complicated equipment to judge workout intensity.

A simple method is the “talk test.”

During moderate-intensity exercise, your breathing should be noticeably faster, but you should generally still be able to speak in short sentences.

During vigorous exercise, talking becomes more difficult because you are breathing much harder.

The American Heart Association estimates moderate activity at roughly 50% to 70% of maximum heart rate and vigorous activity at about 70% to 85%, although those numbers are general estimates rather than precise targets for every person.

For most beginners, how you feel is often more useful than obsessing over a number on a watch.

Try a simple 15-minute home cardio workout

If you are not sure where to begin, try this simple routine:

2 minutes: March briskly in place
1 minute: Jumping jacks or step jacks
2 minutes: Walk or jog in place
1 minute: Squat-to-reach
2 minutes: Shadow boxing
1 minute: Mountain climbers or countertop mountain climbers
2 minutes: Walk or jog in place
1 minute: Step-ups
3 minutes: Easy walking and cool-down

That is 15 minutes of movement without purchasing anything.

Do it twice and you have a 30-minute workout.

You can also shorten the intervals, take longer breaks or substitute exercises depending on your fitness level.

Start where you are

A common mistake is trying to turn the first workout into a fitness test.

It does not need to be.

If you have been inactive for a while, five or ten minutes of movement is a perfectly reasonable place to start. Gradually add time or intensity as your fitness improves.

The CDC emphasizes that some physical activity is better than none, and the weekly goal can be built gradually.

Consistency usually matters more than creating one exhausting workout that you dread repeating.

It is also worth remembering that cardiovascular exercise is only part of a well-rounded fitness routine. Adults should also include muscle-strengthening activity at least two days each week.

Know when to stop

Exercise should make you breathe harder and feel physically challenged, but certain symptoms should not simply be pushed through.

Stop exercising and seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as significant chest pain, fainting or severe unexplained shortness of breath.

People who have heart disease, significant medical conditions or concerns about beginning a new exercise program should talk with a healthcare professional about what level of activity is appropriate for them.

For most people, however, getting started does not require a perfect workout plan or a room full of equipment.

Move more.

Find a few exercises you actually enjoy.

And make them part of your normal week.

And while you’re taking steps to improve your own heart health, consider taking a CPR class too. Knowing how to respond if someone nearby suffers sudden cardiac arrest is a practical skill that could help save a life.     www.inpulsecpr.com

This article was refreshed in 2026 with updated physical activity recommendations, additional at-home cardio exercises and practical guidance for starting safely.

What to Do If Someone Is Having a Heart Attack in Public

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

A crowded restaurant, grocery store, workplace, airport, church, or sporting event may be the last place you expect a medical emergency. But heart attacks can happen anywhere, and knowing what to do during those first few minutes can make an enormous difference.

If someone develops symptoms that could indicate a heart attack, don’t wait to see if they get better. Call 911.

Even if you’re unsure whether it’s actually a heart attack, getting emergency medical help quickly is the safest choice.

Know the Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

Heart attack symptoms aren’t always dramatic. A person doesn’t necessarily collapse while clutching their chest.

Common warning signs can include:

  • Pressure, squeezing, fullness, discomfort, or pain in the chest
  • Pain or discomfort in one or both arms
  • Pain in the back, neck, jaw, shoulder, or stomach
  • Shortness of breath
  • Cold sweat
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Lightheadedness or dizziness
  • Unusual weakness or fatigue

Symptoms can vary from person to person. Women may be more likely to experience symptoms such as nausea, shortness of breath, back or shoulder pain, unusual tiredness, or weakness in addition to chest discomfort.

The important thing is not to dismiss suspicious symptoms simply because they don’t look like the classic movie version of a heart attack.

1. Call 911 Immediately

If you suspect a heart attack, activate emergency medical services right away.

Don’t have the person drive themselves to the hospital, and don’t waste valuable time trying to decide whether the symptoms are serious enough.

Calling 911 gets trained medical professionals moving toward the patient. EMS personnel can begin evaluation and treatment before reaching the hospital and may be able to alert the hospital that a possible heart attack patient is arriving.

If you’re in a large public place, give the dispatcher a precise location. Include the business or venue name, entrance, floor, room, or nearby landmark when appropriate.

If several people are nearby, assign specific jobs:

“You call 911.”

“You get the AED.”

“You meet the ambulance at the entrance.”

Clear instructions help turn a crowd of spectators into a team.

2. Have the Person Stop and Rest

Keep the person calm and avoid unnecessary physical activity.

Have them sit or rest in a comfortable position while waiting for EMS. Don’t have them walk across a parking lot, attempt to drive home, or continue whatever activity they were doing.

If they’re in immediate danger, such as standing in traffic or another hazardous location, move them only as necessary to reach safety.

3. Consider Aspirin When Appropriate

According to American Heart Association and American Red Cross first aid guidance, while waiting for EMS, a first aid provider may encourage an alert adult experiencing nontraumatic chest pain to chew and swallow 162–325 mg of aspirin.

Do not encourage aspirin if the person:

  • Is allergic to aspirin
  • Has been told by a healthcare professional not to take aspirin
  • Has another known reason aspirin may be unsafe

If you’re unsure whether aspirin is appropriate, it is reasonable to wait for EMS and follow the 911 dispatcher’s instructions.

Aspirin is not a substitute for calling 911.

4. Help With Their Prescribed Medication

Some people with known heart disease may carry prescribed nitroglycerin or other medication for chest pain.

If the medication belongs to that person, you can assist them in taking it according to their prescription or medical instructions.

Don’t give someone another person’s prescription medication.

5. Find an AED Before You Need It

If you’re in a public building, ask someone to locate the nearest automated external defibrillator, or AED.

You may see AEDs in places such as:

  • Airports
  • Schools
  • Gyms
  • Churches
  • Shopping centers
  • Government buildings
  • Sports facilities
  • Large workplaces

A person who is awake and experiencing heart attack symptoms does not need an AED shock.

However, a heart attack can sometimes trigger sudden cardiac arrest. Having the AED nearby means it can be used immediately if the person collapses and becomes unresponsive.

Heart Attack vs. Cardiac Arrest: They’re Not the Same Thing

This distinction is extremely important.

A heart attack is primarily a circulation problem. Blood flow to part of the heart muscle becomes blocked. The person is often awake and breathing.

Cardiac arrest is an electrical problem. The heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively. The person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally.

A person having a heart attack can deteriorate into cardiac arrest, which is why someone should stay with them while waiting for EMS.

If the Person Suddenly Collapses

If the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally or is only gasping, treat the situation as cardiac arrest.

Call 911 and Start CPR

If someone hasn’t already called 911, call immediately or send someone else to call.

Begin chest compressions in the center of the chest.

For an adult:

  • Push hard and fast
  • Compress at a rate of 100 to 120 times per minute
  • Push at least 2 inches deep
  • Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions
  • Minimize interruptions

For members of the public who aren’t trained in conventional CPR, Hands-Only CPR can be used for a teen or adult who suddenly collapses:

Call 911 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest.

Someone trained in CPR can provide conventional CPR using cycles of 30 chest compressions followed by 2 breaths.

Use the AED as Soon as It Arrives

Turn the AED on and follow its voice or visual instructions.

AEDs are designed to analyze the person’s heart rhythm and determine whether a shock is needed. You don’t have to decide whether to shock the person. The AED does that for you.

After a shock, or if the AED advises that no shock is needed, immediately resume CPR when instructed.

Continue CPR and follow the AED prompts until:

  • The person begins showing clear signs of life
  • EMS takes over
  • You become physically unable to continue
  • The scene becomes unsafe

Don’t Be Fooled by Gasping

One particularly dangerous mistake is assuming someone is breathing normally because they’re making occasional gasping, snorting, or unusual breathing sounds.

These agonal gasps can occur during cardiac arrest and are not normal breathing.

If someone suddenly collapses, is unresponsive, and is not breathing normally, call 911, begin CPR, and use an AED as quickly as possible.

What NOT to Do During a Suspected Heart Attack

Avoid several common mistakes:

  • Don’t wait for the symptoms to become severe before calling 911.
  • Don’t let the person drive themselves to the hospital.
  • Don’t encourage them to “walk it off.”
  • Don’t give them food or unnecessary drinks.
  • Don’t give prescription medication that belongs to someone else.
  • Don’t perform CPR on an awake person who is breathing normally.
  • Don’t use an AED on a conscious person simply because they’re experiencing chest pain.
  • Don’t assume gasping after collapse means they’re breathing normally.
  • Don’t rely on so-called “cough CPR” instead of calling 911.

The goal is simple: recognize the emergency, activate EMS quickly, and be prepared if the person’s condition worsens.

CPR Training Makes Emergencies Less Intimidating

Reading about CPR is helpful. Practicing it is much better.

Hands-on CPR training gives you the opportunity to practice chest compressions, AED use, rescue breathing, choking response, and other lifesaving skills before you’re standing in the middle of a real emergency.

At In-Pulse CPR, our American Heart Association CPR classes provide hands-on training for healthcare professionals, workplace responders, teachers, caregivers, parents, and members of the community.

Knowing CPR doesn’t mean you’ll ever have to use it.

But if someone collapses in front of you someday, knowing what to do can turn you from a witness into a rescuer.

Find an upcoming In-Pulse CPR class near you and learn the skills that can help save a life.

Quick Summary

If someone may be having a heart attack:

  1. Call 911 immediately.
  2. Have the person stop activity and rest.
  3. Consider 162–325 mg of chewable aspirin when appropriate.
  4. Help with their own prescribed chest-pain medication, if applicable.
  5. Have someone bring an AED nearby.
  6. Stay with the person and watch for changes.
  7. If they become unresponsive and aren’t breathing normally, start CPR immediately.
  8. Use the AED as soon as possible and follow its instructions.

When it comes to a heart attack or cardiac arrest, minutes matter. Knowing what to do before an emergency happens may someday help you save someone’s life.

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Disclaimer:
Use of any advise on this site is purely at your own risk.  The information supplied is designed to accompany CPR and first aid training not to replace.  In-Pulse CPR, Inc disclaims any liability for losses you incur as a result of inaccuracy of the information provided on this website.  Information on this site is for education, supplemental to examination by and advice of medical professionals.   Any information regarding first aid treatments is not meant to replace the advice of medical professionals including physicians, paramedics, emergency room attendants, nurses or other licensed medical personnel.