What Can a Red Cross Instructor Teach?
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Becoming a certified instructor with the American Red Cross opens up a world of opportunities to share vital lifesaving skills. In this blog, we will explore the various courses and skill-boosting options available to instructors, ensuring that you have all the information you need to make the most of your certification.
Getting Started as a Red Cross Instructor
Once you complete your instructor course, which includes an online portion and an in-person six-hour class, you’re ready to start teaching. The first question that often arises is: what can you actually teach? The beauty of being a Red Cross instructor lies in the flexibility of the courses you can offer.
Course Combinations
As a certified instructor, you have the ability to teach a variety of combinations of first aid, CPR, and AED courses. You can mix and match based on your audience's needs, which means you can offer:
* Adult-only classes
* Adult and pediatric classes (including infant and child)
* Pediatric-only classes, which can be particularly useful in settings like daycare centers
* Specific courses focusing solely on CPR and AED or first aid
This flexibility allows you to tailor your teaching to different age groups and specific needs, making your classes relevant and impactful.
Skill Boosts: Expanding Your Teaching Capabilities
In addition to the core courses, instructors can also teach specific skill boosts. Skill boosts are additional training modules that cover particular topics in more depth. However, there are a few important points to keep in mind when teaching these skill boosts:
* You must thoroughly read the lesson plan and any accompanying materials to ensure you understand the content.
* Skill testing is a requirement, meaning you must have the necessary materials and knowledge to conduct these assessments effectively.
Available Skill Boosts
As a Red Cross instructor, you can teach four out of the six available skill boosts:
* Asthma: Focus on using inhalers and quick relief techniques.
* Anaphylaxis: Teach how to recognize and respond to severe allergic reactions.
* Naloxone (Narcan): Educate on administering this life-saving medication for opioid overdoses.
* Bloodborne Pathogens: Cover the prevention and control of infections in various settings.
However, instructors cannot teach:
* Tourniquet Application: This requires advanced training.
* Head, Neck, and Spine Injuries: Also necessitates a higher level of training.
Bridging to Other Content Areas
In addition to the core and skill boost classes, instructors have the option to bridge to other content areas. There will be additional resources available soon that will provide guidance on how to transition into these different areas effectively.
Conclusion
Becoming a Red Cross instructor is an empowering step towards making a difference in your community. With the ability to teach a wide range of courses and skill boosts, you can adapt your teaching to meet the specific needs of your audience. If you have any questions or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out for support as you embark on this rewarding journey.
Ready to start your journey? Check out Ready Response PA for your first aid and safety training needs!
Red Cross, Instructor Training, Lifesaving Skills, CPR, First Aid
