NSFA certifications are one of the most respected fitness certifications in Nova Scotia. Not only will you be able to work in gyms, recreational centres, and privately, you can even transfer your certificate nationally and internationally. However, before you are awarded your certificate, you will need to obtain your CPR and First Aid certification. Learn which level you need and where you can get them.
Why CPR and First Aid Certification?
Having CPR and First Aid knowledge can save a life in medical emergencies. Anything can happen during a training session, so having these valuable skills can improve the quality of your instructions.
Here are some reasons why it pays to have First Aid and CPR certifications
- Save someone’s life
- Increase patient comfort during a stressful situation
- Prevent worsening situations by stabilizing the patient until help arrives
- An assist to your community
- Prevent cardiac arrests with your CPR knowledge
Which Level Do I Need?
According to NSFA, it does not matter which First Aid or CPR level you have. However, some employers prefer a specific type over the other, so it is helpful to know which one you need for your job.
Here are the different levels of First Aid and CPR:
- First Aid: Standard and Emergency
- CPR: Level A (for choking and CPR sequences on adults, Level C (for choking and CPR sequences on adults, children, and enfants), and BLS (basic life support for health care professionals that work in a place for performing team CPR)
Where to Certify for CPR and First Aid Certification?
You can obtain first aid and CPR certifications from these providers:
When Should I Obtain These Certifications
You can get it before taking your Exercise Theory course, after your exam, during your specialty courses, or after. However, we recommend obtaining the certifications after your Exercise Theory exam – this allows you to recertify later instead of sooner.
Keep in mind that most courses out there combine First Aid and CPR and will take 2 days to complete. If you want to take the classes separately, you should check the price difference. But, regardless of which certifications you obtain and when you choose to get them, you will need to recertify your CPR annually to maintain your membership and insurance.
I Have Not Taken My Exercise Theory Exam Yet!
No worries. Sign up for our NS Exercise Theory course and study right away!