Imagine potentially saving hundreds of lives without physically being present. A career as a CPR Instructor allows you to impart your knowledge of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation onto countless individuals eager to assist others who find themselves in unexpected health emergencies. As a CPR Instructor, you will give others confidence knowing that their actions may help save the life of another person until paramedics arrive on the scene.

Definition

The American Heart Association defines Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) as the “noninvasive assessments and interventions used to treat victims of cardiovascular and/or respiratory emergencies and stroke. (See Reference 1)" A CPR Instructor teaches Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation techniques to groups or individuals seeking CPR certification. The CPR certification seekers may have little to no experience.

Responsibilities

The American Professional Safety Trainers Alliance requires CPR Instructor applicants to prove their knowledge and skills in writing and in practice before making an offer for employment. (See Reference 2) CPR Instructors are responsible for communicating effectively, presenting information in an engaging manner, interacting comfortably with others, displaying patience and understanding, adhering to a schedule and following policies. (See Reference 2)

Preferred Qualifications

Individuals interested in becoming CPR Instructors should already be certified in CPR. The American Professional Safety Trainers Alliance (APSTA) hires CPR Instructors whose outer appearance is as impressive as their knowledge base. (See Reference 2) Additionally, APSTA requires its CPR Instructor job applicants to possess an existing American Red Cross Instructor Certification, teaching experience, the ability to pass their pre-employment tests and three references from previously taught classes. (See Reference 2)

Education and Training

CPR Instructors are not required to have a particular level of education, but they must take and pass a CPR Instructor course. The course will develop teaching skills and polish CPR skills. Less Stress Instructional Services offers a two-year CPR Instructor training certification course through the American Heart Association. (See Reference 3) The course combines home learning, classroom instruction and an observation. (See Reference 3)

Salary

Salary List lists the average salary for a First Aid & CPR Instructor as $24,160. (See Reference 4) However, a CPR Instructor’s salary can be vastly different from this figure. Many CPR Instructors work for themselves. Being self-employed allows CPR Instructors to set their own hourly wages. There are advantages and disadvantages in setting your own wages. Charging too much could result in having very few clients. Charging too little may attract a larger clientele, but the meager wages may not be enough to support your lifestyle.

Considerations

CPR Instructors work directly with the public, representing their employer, even if they are self-employed. Appearance is very important. CPR Instructors must gain the trust of their clients in the hopes of forming a lasting relationship. Making a good impression on clients increases the chances that the clients will return when their certification expires or refer friends and coworkers.