AED Certification in Wichita

If you've ever wanted to learn how to help when it's needed most, a great place to start is with AED training in Wichita from the American Red Cross. Classes take just a few short hours to complete, but the information you'll learn and the skills you'll have once your class is complete, can truly help save a life.

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is designed to deliver a "shock" to the heart of a person suffering from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) – and help return the heart to a normal rhythm. In order to deliver the shock, you'll need to place the AED's electrodes (or sensors) sticky-side down on the SCA victim's chest, ensure that the pads are connected to the AED's computer and allow the computer to evaluate the heart's rhythm. Once the rhythm has been evaluated, the computer will deliver a voice prompt that will instruct you to press a button and deliver the shock – which travels through the electrodes to the SCA victim's chest.

Because first responders typically arrive on scene 8 to 12 minutes after 911 is called, and for each minute that defibrillation is delayed, the victim's chance of survival is reduced by 10 percent, having the skills and confidence to use an AED can truly save a life. To sign up for AED training in Wichita, check out our class schedule – and learn how you can help when it's needed most.

Sudden cardiac arrest isn't just a problem for the elderly or the infirm. It can happen to anyone – including kids and infants – which is why most of our AED classes in Wichita include how to use an automated external defibrillator on children and infants, as well as adults. Classes are available online, in person, and via our blended Simulation Learning experience, which combines online coursework with an in-person skills session. This way, you can learn the way that suits you (and your schedule) best. If your job requires full OSHA-compliant certification, then an in-person or Simulation Learning course will be necessary to achieve your goal. However, if OSHA-compliant certification isn't required, then an online-only course will suffice. Check our newest class schedule to find the training you need.

For those who may not need OSHA-compliant certifications, the Red Cross offers AED online training in Wichita. These courses, which are delivered entirely online, give class participants access to the same science-based information as our other AED courses, but in lieu of hands-on skills sessions, they test your knowledge through interactive activities. Once you've successfully completed the class, you'll not only have the skills and knowledge necessary for using an AED, but a two-year certification to prove it. Find out more about our online AED classes by reviewing our newest course schedule.

AEDs give you access to life-saving technology, and our Wichita AED training course can teach you how to use them properly. So, after completing your certification you may wonder if having an AED at home makes sense. After all, they're in most public buildings, airports, shopping malls and other locations – so why shouldn't you have one at home? Well, according to the Mayo Clinic, "if you're at high risk of sudden cardiac death due to a specific heart rhythm problem, your doctor will likely recommend an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) rather than an AED." In addition, at-home AEDs can be expensive, require periodic maintenance, and they aren't usually covered by insurance. Of course, if you happen to live alone or live with someone who isn't able to position you (or themselves) easily for proper usage, then having an AED in your home won't be of help, should you need it. If you do think you'd like to purchase an AED, we recommend that you talk to your doctor about why and what the risks and benefits may be. In the meantime, perhaps simply completing an AED training in Wichita, and knowing where the devices are located in the places you frequent, may be all you need to provide or receive help when necessary.

In Wichita, AED renewal is easy with The American Red Cross. With abbreviated classes created specifically for current certificate holders, our AED renewal program allows you to maintain your certification. During the course, our knowledgeable instructors will cover AED usage for adults, children, and infants, and provide you with the latest science-based knowledge. At the end of class there will be a skills session that will allow you to demonstrate what you've learned and correct any bad habits you may have formed. Once successfully completed, your credentials will be renewed for two years, and you'll have access to our online refresher materials – which can help you maintain your skills throughout the certification period. For details on the AED renewal classes available in your area, check out our newest course schedule.

At the Red Cross, we not only offer AED training in Wichita, but first aid, CPR, BLS courses for first responders, and a wide range of other options that can help you meet your personal and professional goals. Check our updated class schedule, and discover the many ways to train with the experts at the American Red Cross.