Basic Life Support and The Safe Use of an AED | RQF Level 2

Heart and circulatory disease claims around 200,000 lives each year. Many could have been saved if a defibrillator was made available.

Automated External Defibrillators (AED's) are now becoming more common throughout a range of public and work places. A casualty's survival rate will dramatically increase if an AED is available and if you have appropriately qualified personnel to use it. This very practical course will enable your learners to use the AED competently and with confidence.Not only does this course deal with the use of an AED but it also includes vital training in basic life support including resuscitation.

The RQF Level 2 Basic Life Support and The Safe Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) course is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to respond to cardiac arrest and other medical emergencies. This course focuses on teaching participants how to perform basic life support techniques and safely operate an AED. Here is a general description of the course:

1. Introduction to Basic Life Support: The course begins with an overview of the importance of basic life support and its role in saving lives. Participants learn about the key principles of basic life support, including the importance of early recognition, activation of emergency medical services (EMS), and the prompt initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
2. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): Participants are trained in CPR techniques for adults, children, and infants. They learn the correct hand placement, compression depth, and rate for performing chest compressions. Instruction is provided on the integration of chest compressions with rescue breaths, or in some cases, compression-only CPR for adult victims.
3. Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Use: The course focuses on teaching participants how to safely use an AED. They learn about the purpose and function of an AED, how to assess the need for its use, and the steps to operate the device effectively. Practical training is provided on AED placement, pad application, following voice prompts, and delivering a shock, if necessary.
4. Airway Management: Basic airway management techniques are covered in the course. Participants learn how to open and maintain a victim's airway using head-tilt/chin-lift or jaw thrust maneuvers. They also learn how to recognize and clear airway obstructions caused by choking.
5. Recognition and Response to Medical Emergencies: Participants are taught how to recognize signs of common medical emergencies, such as heart attack, stroke, and respiratory distress. They learn the appropriate actions to take and how to provide initial care and support until professional medical help arrives.
6. Teamwork and Communication: Effective teamwork and communication are emphasized throughout the course. Participants learn how to work collaboratively with others during an emergency situation and how to communicate vital information to EMS providers when they arrive.
7. Practical Skills and Assessment: Practical skills are reinforced through hands-on practice and assessment. Participants have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in simulated emergency scenarios, practicing CPR, using AEDs, and managing airway obstructions.
8. Certification: Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive an RQF Level 2 certification in Basic Life Support and The Safe Use of an AED. This certification demonstrates their competence in performing basic life support techniques and safely operating an AED.

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The RQF Level 2 Basic Life Support and The Safe Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) course can be delivered through various methods to accommodate different learning preferences and logistical considerations. Here are some common delivery methods for this course:

1. Instructor-Led Classroom Training: This format involves participants attending a classroom-based training session led by a certified instructor. The instructor delivers the course content through presentations, demonstrations, and interactive discussions. Participants have the opportunity to ask questions, engage in group activities, and practice skills under the guidance and supervision of the instructor.
2. Blended Learning: Blended learning combines online self-paced modules with in-person practical training. Participants complete the theoretical portion of the course online at their own pace, typically through an e-learning platform. The online modules cover the knowledge-based components of basic life support and AED use. After completing the online modules, participants attend an in-person session with an instructor to practice and demonstrate their skills using manikins and AED training devices.
3. On-Site Workplace Training: Some organizations prefer to provide the RQF Level 2 Basic Life Support and AED course directly in their workplace. Certified instructors can conduct the training on-site, tailored to the specific needs of the organization and its employees. This approach allows for training that is relevant to the workplace environment and may include scenarios or simulations specific to the industry or setting.
4. Mobile Training Units: In certain areas, mobile training units or training vans may be available to deliver the course on-site in different locations. These units are equipped with the necessary training materials, manikins, and AED training devices, allowing for convenient access to training in communities or organizations that may have limited resources or difficulties attending traditional training facilities.

Regardless of the delivery method, the RQF Level 2 Basic Life Support and AED course typically includes a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills training, and assessment to ensure participants acquire the necessary competencies. The practical skills portion involves hands-on practice using manikins, AED training devices, and other training aids to simulate real-life scenarios. Participants may also engage in role-playing exercises or simulations to enhance their decision-making and communication skills during emergencies.

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Module 1 Introduction

‍Module 2 Introduction to defibrillation

‍Module 3 Responsibilities

‍Module 4 Primary survey

Module 5 Secondary assessment

‍Module 6 Resuscitation

‍Module 7 AED functions

‍Module 8 Defibrillation with an AED

‍Module 9 Safety measures

‍Module 10 Course closure

Upon successful completion of the RQF Level 2 Basic Life Support and The Safe Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) course, participants can expect to achieve the following outcomes:

1. Knowledge of Basic Life Support: Participants will have a solid understanding of the principles and techniques of basic life support. They will learn about the importance of early recognition of cardiac arrest, activation of emergency medical services (EMS), and the prompt initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
2. Competence in CPR: Participants will acquire the skills necessary to perform effective CPR on adults, children, and infants. This includes understanding the correct hand placement, compression depth, and rate for performing chest compressions, as well as the integration of rescue breaths or compression-only CPR based on the victim's age and condition.
3. Proficiency in AED Use: Participants will gain the knowledge and confidence to safely operate an automated external defibrillator (AED). They will learn how to assess the need for AED use, properly apply electrode pads to a victim's chest, follow voice prompts, and deliver a shock when indicated. Participants will understand the importance of coordinating AED use with CPR.
4. Recognition and Response to Medical Emergencies: Participants will be able to recognize common signs of medical emergencies, such as heart attack, stroke, and respiratory distress. They will understand how to initiate appropriate actions and provide initial care and support until professional medical help arrives.
5. Teamwork and Communication Skills: The course emphasizes the importance of effective teamwork and communication during emergency situations. Participants will develop skills in working collaboratively with others, including coordinating CPR, assigning tasks, and communicating vital information to EMS providers.
6. Confidence in Emergency Situations: Through hands-on practice and simulated scenarios, participants will gain confidence in their ability to respond to cardiac arrest and other medical emergencies. They will develop the necessary skills to remain calm, act decisively, and provide critical life-saving interventions.
7. Certification: Successful participants will typically receive an RQF Level 2 certification in Basic Life Support and The Safe Use of an AED. This certification demonstrates their competence in performing basic life support techniques and safely using an AED according to recognized standards.

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The RQF Level 2 Basic Life Support and The Safe Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) course is suitable for a wide range of individuals who may find themselves in situations where they need to respond to cardiac arrest and other medical emergencies. The course is particularly relevant for the following groups:

1. Healthcare Professionals: Healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and other healthcare providers, should attend this course. They often encounter medical emergencies in their practice and require the knowledge and skills to provide immediate life-saving interventions.
2. First Responders: Individuals who work as firefighters, police officers, and other emergency response personnel should consider attending this course. They are often the first to arrive at the scene of an emergency and may need to perform basic life support techniques and use an AED before medical professionals arrive.
3. Workplace and Industrial Settings: Employees in various industries, such as construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and transportation, may benefit from attending this course. These industries can have higher risks for accidents or medical emergencies, and having trained personnel on-site who can provide basic life support and use an AED can improve response times and outcomes.
4. Educators and School Personnel: Teachers, school administrators, coaches, and other school staff members should consider attending this course. They often work closely with children and may need to respond to medical emergencies that occur during school hours or at school-related events.
5. Community Members and Volunteers: Members of the general public who want to be prepared to respond to medical emergencies can also attend this course. This can include parents, caregivers, community volunteers, or individuals who have a personal interest in acquiring life-saving skills.

The RQF Level 2 Basic Life Support and AED course is designed to provide individuals with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively in emergency situations. It is suitable for both those with no prior medical training and those who need to refresh their skills or gain certification. It is important to note that specific requirements or recommendations may vary depending on the organization or industry, so it is advisable to check with relevant regulatory bodies or professional associations for specific guidance.

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After completing the RQF Level 2 Basic Life Support and The Safe Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) course, individuals can choose to progress further in their life support training and education. Here are some potential progression options:

1. Advanced Life Support (ALS) Training: ALS courses are designed for healthcare professionals who require a higher level of life support skills. ALS training builds upon the knowledge and skills learned in the basic life support (BLS) course and covers more advanced techniques, such as advanced airway management, intravenous access, and administration of medications during cardiac emergencies. ALS courses are typically more comprehensive and provide a deeper understanding of resuscitation principles.
2. Specialty-Specific Life Support Courses: Depending on their area of practice or interest, individuals can pursue specialty-specific life support courses. For example, paediatric healthcare providers may choose to complete Paediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) training, which focuses on the unique aspects of managing paediatric emergencies. Other specialty-specific courses may include Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Obstetric Life Support (OLS), or Trauma Life Support (TLS).
3. Instructor Training: Individuals who have developed expertise in basic life support and AED use may consider becoming certified instructors. Instructor training programs equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and teaching methodologies required to effectively deliver BLS and AED courses to others. Becoming an instructor allows individuals to share their knowledge and contribute to training more individuals in life support skills.
4. Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Lifelong learning and continuous professional development are crucial in the field of life support. Healthcare professionals can engage in regular updates, workshops, conferences, and simulation-based training to stay updated with the latest advancements and evidence-based practices in resuscitation and life support. CPD activities help individuals maintain and enhance their skills and knowledge over time.
5. Recertification: Certification in basic life support and AED use typically has an expiration date, which is 3 years. Individuals can pursue recertification by attending refresher courses. Recertification ensures that individuals stay current with the latest guidelines and maintain their competency in life support skills.

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