AED Certification in Hickory

Earn your AED certification in Hickory from the American Red Cross. Our OSHA-compliant in-person and blended Simulation Learning courses, as well as our online classes, can help you learn when, why, and how to use an AED. Led by patient, knowledgeable instructors, our classes are small, offer personalized instruction – and may even help you save a life. Find a class in your area.

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 Hickory, check out our class schedule – and learn how you can help when it's needed most.

For those who may not need OSHA-compliant certifications, the Red Cross offers AED online training in Hickory. 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 Hickory 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 Hickory, 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 Hickory, 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.

The training opportunities available at the Red Cross go far beyond our Hickory AED certification courses. In fact, there's something for everyone – at every age. With babysitting classes for tweens and teens, First Aid and CPR courses for teens and adults, and BLS and other training opportunities for medical professionals, we can help you reach your goals at any age.