Online CPR/AED Course

Get certified in Adult, Child, and Infant CPR, plus AED use, with our 100% Online CPR/AED Course. Complete it in under 2 hours, enjoy unlimited quiz retakes, and earn instant certification valid for 2 years.

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$14.95 $24.90

Chapters	CE Credits	Validity	Cost	Duration	ECC	Exam Attempts	Wallet Card
12	4.0	2 Years	$14.95	1-2 Hrs	Compliant	Unlimited	Download/Print/Mail

Chapters12
CE Credits4.0
Validity2 Years
Cost$14.95
Duration1-2 Hrs
ECCCompliant
Exam AttemptsUnlimited
Wallet CardDownload/Print/Mail

Chapter 2: Assessing The Situation

Before you step in to help during an emergency, the very first thing to do is check the scene. Make sure it’s safe for you to enter. Staying alert protects you and helps you respond effectively.

If the scene is unsafe or puts you at risk—don’t enter. Your safety always comes first.

COVID-19 Safety Reminder
According to the 2021 Interim Guidance for suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases, you should:
- Put on personal protective equipment (PPE) right away
- Limit the number of people around the victim
- Only approach after confirming that the scene is safe
Call 9-1-1 Immediately
One of the most powerful things you can do in a life-threatening emergency is to call 9-1-1. Activating emergency services early is often the difference between life and death.
PPE: What You Should Wear
PPE helps prevent disease transmission while you assist others. Your PPE may include:
- Gloves
- Goggles or other eye protection
- Gown, lab coat, or apron
- Shoe covers
- Face shield or mask
- Cap or hair cover

If you’re ever unsure or unprotected, it’s okay to step away and wait for help. Never compromise your own safety.

Don’t Move the Victim if There’s a Neck or Spine Injury
If you think the person may have injured their neck or spine, do not move or shake them. Wait for trained medical personnel unless the scene becomes too dangerous to stay.
Know the ECC’s Chain of Survival
When you’re preparing to perform CPR or assist in any emergency, it’s important to remember the Chain of Survival from the Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) guidelines. These five steps are the foundation of effective care:
- Early recognition of the emergency and immediate activation of EMS
- Early CPR, focusing on chest compressions
- Rapid defibrillation when needed
- Early advanced care by professionals
- Coordinated post-care to support recovery
These actions work together—and when done quickly and in order, they can save lives.

This chapter is part of your Online CPR/AED Course and helps prepare you to respond safely and effectively when every second counts.

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Chapter 2: Assessing The Situation

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