Online CPR Certification Blog

Anaphylactic shock is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur within seconds of exposure to an allergen. Without fast intervention, it can lead to breathing problems, dangerously low blood pressure, unconsciousness, and even death. Knowing what to do in those first critical moments can save a life.

One of the most common concerns people have about performing CPR is the fear of catching a disease while giving rescue breaths. This worry often causes hesitation during emergencies — hesitation that can cost precious seconds and, potentially, a life. Understanding the actual risks, modern CPR guidelines, and available safety measures can help remove fear and encourage confident action when it matters most.

One of the most common reasons people hesitate to perform CPR is the belief that they are not physically strong enough. This myth prevents countless bystanders from stepping in during cardiac emergencies, even though CPR relies more on technique than raw strength. Understanding how CPR truly works can remove fear and empower more people to take action when it matters most.

A common question many people ask is: “Am I allowed to perform CPR if I’m not certified?” This uncertainty often leads to hesitation during cardiac emergencies—moments when immediate action can mean the difference between life and death. The good news is clear: you do not need to be certified to perform CPR in an emergency. However, training significantly improves confidence, effectiveness, and outcomes.

Few medical myths are as widespread—and as dangerous—as the belief that you should put something in a person’s mouth during a seizure. This misconception has been passed down for generations, often with good intentions, but it can cause serious harm to both the person having the seizure and the responder trying to help.

One of the most dangerous misconceptions about heart attacks is the belief that a person must collapse, clutch their chest, or become silent and unresponsive. In reality, a person can be fully conscious—and even talking—while experiencing a heart attack.

When learning CPR, one of the most common—and most important—questions is about compression rate. How fast should you push? Too slow, and blood flow is inadequate. Too fast, and compressions may become shallow and ineffective.

Television dramas and movies have created one of the most persistent misconceptions in emergency care: the idea that an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can restart a heart that has completely flatlined.

In reality, an AED cannot shock or restart a flatline heart. Understanding why this myth is false—and what does help in these situations—is critical for anyone who may respond to a cardiac emergency. This concept is clearly taught in cpr certification and basic life support certification programs.

Seeing a small device implanted under someone’s skin during a cardiac emergency can cause hesitation for bystanders. A common question is whether it’s safe—or even allowed—to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on a person who has a pacemaker.

Workplace safety is not just a best practice—it’s a legal responsibility. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes standards to ensure employers provide a safe and healthful working environment. Among these responsibilities is ensuring that employees have timely access to first aid and CPR when emergencies occur.