Online CPR Certification Blog
Continuing Education Credits for Nurses and EMTs Through CPR Renewal
Date: November 17th, 2025
Continuing Education (CE) is essential for healthcare professionals who must stay updated with the latest clinical guidelines, safety protocols, and emergency response skills. Among the most valuable and widely accepted forms of CE training is CPR Renewal, including BLS, CPR/AED, and First Aid recertification courses.
Whether you are a nurse, EMT, paramedic, or another licensed healthcare provider, renewing your certification does more than keep your skills fresh — it can also earn you Continuing Education Credits required for license renewal and professional advancement.
Why CPR Renewal Counts Toward CE Credits
CPR and BLS renewal courses cover critical life-saving skills and updated American Heart Association (AHA) or equivalent guidelines. These skills qualify as continuing education because they help healthcare professionals:
- Maintain competency in emergency response
- Learn the newest resuscitation science
- Strengthen patient safety
- Meet state and employer compliance standards
Many boards accept CPR/BLS renewal as part of the annual or bi-annual CE requirements for nurses, EMTs, and other healthcare providers.
CE Credits for Nurses Through CPR Renewal
Most state nursing boards allow nurses to count CPR or BLS Renewal toward their CE requirements, especially when:
- It includes updated AHA guidelines
- It provides a completion certificate
- The course is from an accredited CE provider
Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) typically need between 20–30 CE hours every 1–2 years, depending on state rules. CPR Renewal may account for 1–3 hours of those requirements.
CE Credits for EMTs and Paramedics Through CPR Renewal
EMTs, AEMTs, and Paramedics must meet National Registry (NREMT) or state renewal requirements. CPR renewal is a mandatory skill, and CE hours earned may include:
- BLS Provider Renewal
- CPR/AED Recertification
- Advanced resuscitation training (if included)
Most EMTs receive 1–4 CE hours for CPR Renewal, depending on course length and provider accreditation.
Typical CE Hours Earned by Course
| Course Type | CE Hours | Who It’s For |
|---|---|---|
| CPR/AED Renewal | 1–2 hours | General healthcare workers |
| BLS Renewal | 2–4 hours | Nurses, EMTs, clinical staff |
| CPR + First Aid Renewal | 3–5 hours | Clinical + non-clinical roles |
| Advanced BLS Add-Ons | 4–6 hours | Paramedics, ER/ICU staff |
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Documentation Needed to Claim CE Credits
Healthcare professionals should keep:
- Certificate of completion
- Provider accreditation details
- Course syllabus or outline
- Date of completion
Most online CPR renewal providers include these automatically.
Benefits of Earning CE Credits Through CPR Renewal
- Meets state license renewal requirements
- Satisfies employer-mandated competencies
- Keeps skills updated with the latest guidelines
- Fast, convenient, and affordable
- Accepted by most nursing and EMS boards
Many online programs also offer instant certification, wallet cards, and same-day CEU reporting.
Who Should Use CPR Renewal for Continuing Education?
- Registered Nurses (RNs)
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
- Nursing Assistants (CNAs)
- EMTs and AEMTs
- Paramedics
- Respiratory Therapists
- Medical Assistants
- Allied health professionals
Final Summary
CPR Renewal is one of the easiest and most meaningful ways for nurses and EMTs to earn Continuing Education Credits. It strengthens clinical competency, ensures regulatory compliance, and prepares professionals to act quickly in life-threatening situations.