A cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) test is a procedure for demonstrating that someone is capable of performing CPR. A certificate will be issued if the test-taker passes. A CPR test is frequently included in a CPR class, allowing people to learn CPR and receive their certification all in one location. People can also take standalone tests to get certified or renew a certificate they already have. CPR certification can increase an individual’s employability demonstrating that they are capable of performing CPR and basic first aid in the event of an emergency.
There are two parts to a typical CPR test. The first is a written examination in which participants are asked a series of questions about CPR fundamentals. This section of the test is designed to ensure that participants understand CPR protocol, when to perform CPR, how to perform CPR, and how to deal with situations such as infants who are not breathing. The written test is typically multiple choice, allowing test takers to select from a variety of answers for each question.
The skills test is the second part of a CPR exam. A test taker demonstrates CPR skills on a dummy in a skills test. This demonstrates that the test taker can perform CPR in the proper position, follow the protocol, and administer breaths and compressions. An instructor or test administrator evaluates the test taker to ensure that they are performing CPR correctly.
CPR certification lasts for a year on average. When someone recertifies, they must take both the written and skills tests. Recertification is a process that ensures people have the skills they require. It’s easy to forget the protocol or become sloppy if you only administer CPR once in a while. The protocol is also updated on a regular basis, requiring people to recertify to show that they are familiar with the new procedure.
A CPR test is usually a low-stress situation. Because testing is frequently part of a class, students usually have plenty of opportunities to take practice tests before the real test, allowing them to become familiar with the process. Instructors generally want their students to pass in order to increase the number of people who can perform CPR around the world, so they will assist students in studying and provide tips and pointers to help them pass the CPR test.