The Heartsaver CPR/AED course is built for the general public and the workplace — no medical background needed. Here is the typical flow.
1. Check-in and welcome
You arrive, sign in, and meet your instructor — a working EMS professional. They will outline the day and put you at ease. No surprise written exams; this course is competency-based.
2. The basics, explained simply
Through short video segments and discussion, you learn how to recognize an emergency, call 911, and start hands-only and full CPR. Everything is in plain language.
3. Hands-on practice
This is the heart of the class. You practice on a manikin until your compression rate and depth feel natural, then learn rescue breaths. You will push hard, push fast, and let the chest recoil — over and over until it is automatic.
4. Using an AED
You practice with a trainer AED: turn it on, follow the prompts, place the pads, and let it analyze. By the end it feels routine instead of intimidating.
5. Skills check and your card
Your instructor watches you run through the skills to confirm competency. Pass, and you receive an AHA Heartsaver course completion card valid for two years.
How long it takes
Plan for about 3–4 hours for a traditional class, or 1–2 hours if you do the online portion first. Details in how long does a CPR class take?
Not sure if Heartsaver is the right class? Compare it with BLS Provider.