What is a Cardiac First Responder- Community Level?

A cardiac first responder Community level is a person trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and in the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) who can respond to someone who has suddenly collapsed. A cardiac first responder plays a critical role in keeping a person alive until the commencement of expert medical care.

A cardiac first responder may be part of the emergency medical services, a healthcare practitioner or a member of the public who has undertaken a Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC) recognised course within the last 2 years. CFR Community level is the pre or co-requisite for entry to PHECC’s First Aid Response courses.

Learning outcomes

• Recognise the signs of a life-threatening emergency.
• Respond in an effective, safe and appropriate manner, to a life-threatening emergency, utilising basic life support skills.
• Retrieve and appropriately use, if required, an automated external defibrillator during a cardiac arrest
• Report and Record their actions and interventions appropriately and handover emergency medical services

Course content

Module One: Basic Emergency Care

On completion of Module 1, the student will be able to recognise the signs of a life-threatening emergency and can initiate basic life support to the person who suddenly collapses or is choking. The student will also learn the indications and administration of Aspirin.

Module Two: Accessing and Use of an Automated External Defibrillator 

On completion of Module 2, the student will be able to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) without delay in accordance with the appropriate PHECC CPGs.

Module Three: Safety and Communication 

On completion of Module 3, the student will be able to activate the Emergency Medical Services and communicate effectively with other healthcare professionals in the continuum of care for the patient.

Certification

Award of joint PHECC/Emergency Training and Education Ltd CFR Community cards/certificates
to successful participants is mandatory. Certification lapses after two years

Cost €70 per person