What to do when Stung by a Bee

IN THIS BLOG

Why bee stings cause allergic reaction
How to treat bee stings

First Aid Training

IN THIS BLOG

Why bee stings cause allergic reactions
How to treat bee stings
First Aid Training

Summer is about to begin in Ontario which means the bees are out! Bees play an important role in our world by pollinating our plants so we can eat. Without bees, we would not have the diversity of food we have today. Bees are a necessary insect in our world which is why it is so important to save them!

Unfortunately, many people are afraid of bees because they can sting. It is important to keep in mind that bees typically only sting if they are trying to protect themselves or their nest. Wasps, on the other hand, are more likely to sting and are often confused with bees.

Most people have no adverse reactions when stung by a bee, except for the initial stinging, pain, and redness. However, anyone allergic to bee stings can suffer severe symptoms from the allergic reaction. Multiple bee stings or an allergic reaction constitute a medical emergency, requiring an immediate medical response. In this blog, we will discuss what to do when stung by a bee.

Learn How to Take Care of a Bee Sting

Learn more about self care in out First Aid & CPR training course! Contact us to get more information.

Why bee stings cause allergic reactions

Bee stingers are barbed, and when they sting, it is usually left behind in the skin. From the moment a person is stung, the sting releases venom into the skin for up to a minute. The pain and swelling people feel are caused by the proteins in the poison. Some people are also allergic to hornets, wasps, yellow jackets, and it’s always good to run tests to determine what allergies a person has, helping to prevent placing them at risk if stung.

In some people, this venom triggers a severe reaction in their immune system, causing it to produce immunoglobulin E (IgE). IgE is an antibody used by the body to fight viruses and parasites, and when released in response to the sting, allergic reactions like swelling, hives, and breathing problems.

Sometimes, reactions to a bee’s sting can differ. Therefore, it’s best to look out for the reaction signs to the sting.

How to treat bee stings

Treatment for bee stings depends on the severity of the reaction. After a bee sting, a person should calmly walk away from the area to avoid another sting. If the bee’s stinger is in the skin, the best way to remove it is to scrape it out, but never use a tweezer because this pushes more venom into the area.

Mild to moderate reaction

If the bee’s stinger is in the skin, the best way to remove it is to scrape it away with a plastic card (such as a credit card). Next, wash the sting area with clean water before applying a cold pack. The cold pack will control swelling. Be careful not to freeze the skin, though. Place a cloth between the affected area and cold pack.

Painkillers can relieve the pain, and an antihistamine reduces itchiness and inflammation. These symptoms should only last a few days. Scratching the area can make the itching and swelling worse and increase the risk of infecting the sting area. Continue monitoring the sting for allergic reactions or anaphylaxis.

Severe reaction

In most cases, reactions of the immune system go unnoticed as the body defends against antigens. However, when there is a severe or anaphylactic shock, the immune system has an explosive reaction. Typically, anaphylaxis will begin within a few minutes of the sting or up to 30 minutes. Rarely will you suffer from anaphylaxis hours later.

In a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), an epinephrine injection (adrenaline) helps reduce the severity. Bee stings can sometimes cause cardiac arrest within minutes in those allergic to them. Emergency responders will often administer oxygen, and once at the hospital, doctors may also administer intravenous fluids.

The symptoms of anaphylaxis include skin reactions, constricted airways resulting in breathing difficulties, nausea, dizziness, and wheezing. People with known bee allergies usually carry an EpiPen (an epinephrine injection device) and use it immediately after a sting.

Most people can administer the EpiPen injection themselves on the outer thigh, even through clothing if needed. If they cannot, in the absence of a first responder, anyone with the proper training can help them to administer the adrenaline to help save a life in an emergency involving an allergic reaction.

How to use an EpiPen

Remove the safety cap by pulling straight
Hold the epipen (orange side) against the middle third of the person’s outer thigh
Push the epipen until you hear a click
Remove the epipen and be cautious of an exposed needle
Place the epipen into a container for the victim to bring to the hospital
Ask the victim to rest until EMS arrives
Rub site of injection for 30 sections (this helps with absorption)
If the person is not feeling better within five minutes, you may inject a second dose (if available) into the other leg

People can suffer from an epinephrine overdose, so never administer more than two doses after each other. The signs of an overdose are difficulty breathing and irregular heartbeat.

After anaphylaxis, the person needs medical attention and should be cautious for at least 48 hours. They must also remember to get their new EpiPen since they can never leave home without it.

First Aid Training

Bee venom and other poisons are a real danger. First Aid training can help protect you and others by knowing what to do when faced with cases like these, whether the symptoms are mild or severe.

Our Standard First Aid training at Coast2Coast encompasses the training required to help in several emergencies, including those involving bee stings. Complete your training in an Online Blended format! Learn theory online prior to attending a one-day in-class training session. Select your area and register today.

Register for First Aid & CPR Training

Choose from any of our locations across Ontario and gain the knowledge and skills to save a life!

Benefits of Private First Aid Training

man practicing cpr on a manikin with additional students sitting in the background on chairs

Understanding how to provide proper first aid or CPR to an injured or unconsious person is important. Accidents can happen at any time which is why we should be prepared. A great way to learn these life-saving skills is to complete a First Aid & CPR training course.

Did you know that many professions require their employees to be first aid and CPR certified? That’s right! Everyone from nurses to office staff may be required to complete a First Aid & CPR training course. In Ontario, many companies are covered by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act (WSIB). These companies must follow Regulation 1101 regarding first aid training and safety requirements.

One of our goals at Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics is to provide everyone with some form of First Aid and CPR training, ensuring they are confident enough to assist in an emergency.

Do your employees need to complete first aid training? At Coast2Coast, we offer Private First Aid training courses for groups of eight participants or more. There are many benefits of Private First Aid training compared to public courses. Let’s discuss more below!

What is Private Training?

As a Canadian Red Cross training partner, we are dedicated to provide several WSIB-approved First Aid and CPR courses. Most people do the training in their own time by attending a public course. However, we also provide Private First Aid training. With Private training, we take care of everything for your group!

At Coast2Coast, Private Training is a way for groups of eight or more participants to get trained together. There are many benefits to Private First Aid training such as certifying many employees at once, convenient scheduling, choice of training location/time, amazing discounts and more!

Arranging a Private First Aid training is simple. All you need to do is fill out a form on our website then one of our Private Training specialists will contact you. Once the details of your training are determined, we will finalize your training by booking one of our experienced Canadian Red Cross instructors.

Our highly-trained instructors provide Private First Aid & CPR/AED training to groups of people at their chosen location. If your school, business, home, etc., is unsuitable for the training, we host the training at any of our facilities across Ontario. Clients can choose from several types of training levels, depending on their First Aid requirements. These include:

CPR/AED Level A/C
Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED Level C
Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Level C
Marine Basic First Aid
Basic Life Support (BLS-HCP)
Professional Responder programs (e.g. First Responder or Emergency Medical Responder)
Youth programs (e.g. Babysitting or Stay Safe)
And more!

On completion, the candidates in the Private First Aid training course receive a WSIB-approved certificate once their invoice has been cleared. First Aid and CPR certificates are valid for three years, and Basic Life Support certificates for one year.

Who Needs Private Training?

Any group of people, whether they are scholars, teachers, employees, medical professionals, friends, or family members wanting to complete a First Aid & CPR or Basic Life Support course, are the perfect candidates for Private First Aid training. Most often, employers who need to certify more than eight employees register for Private First Aid & CPR training.

woman checking on a man who has fallen unconscious on the floor.

As mentioned before, many companies are required to train their employees in first aid under WSIB’s Regulation 1101. Private training makes it convenient for them to complete this. Although, Private training is not only helpful for companies; it’s also helpful for groups of friends, families and more!

No one can deny the importance of First Aid training. Many people put it off because they feel they don’t have the time, don’t know how to register for it or think they don’t need it. Private training solves this problem because just one person needs to organize the training for everyone. Then one of our professional instructors arrives at the given date and time to do the training.

First aid training does more than just give you the confidence to help save lives. The person who provides first aid during an emergency offers the victim comfort and helps prevent the worsening of the victim’s situation. The more people within a group who have the training, the better it is for the whole.

Besides giving your group the confidence to care for others, private First Aid training encourages you all to live healthily and safely because of the knowledge and awareness you will learn from the instructor.

Empower Your Team with First Aid and CPR Training!

Enhance your workplace safety with our private group training sessions in First Aid and CPR. Tailored to your organization’s needs, our expert instructors will provide hands-on training to ensure your team is prepared for any emergency.

What are the Benefits of Private First Aid Training?

There are several benefits of Private First Aid Training:

It saves time because everyone can take the course together, instead of taking time off separately.
Everyone is simultaneously prepared to face any emergencies.
Coast2Coast has fantastic offers and discounts for private training groups.
Convenience of having an instructor come to you for the training on the day, time, and place that suits the whole group.
Booking the private training is a simple process. Just fill in the form, providing the number of participants, type of course, and level, and one of our customer service representatives will contact you within 24 hours.
All participants will receive a WSIB-approved certificate through the Canadian Red Cross.

Contact us at Coast2Coast by phone or email if you have any questions regarding Private First Aid & CPR/AED training courses.

Watch: Learn CPR in SECONDS!

Where to Book Private First Aid Training Across Canada and the U.S.

Coast2Coast offers private group training sessions at over 30 locations. Whether your team needs CPR Certification Mississauga, CPR Certification Toronto, or CPR Certification Calgary, we bring the training to your workplace or host it at one of our facilities. Businesses in Ontario can book First Aid training Brampton, Standard First Aid Hamilton, or CPR Certification Ottawa. We also serve teams looking for First Aid training Edmonton, First Aid training Vancouver, CPR Certification Kitchener, and CPR Certification Saskatoon. All private sessions include Standard First Aid & CPR Level C certification from the Canadian Red Cross, and can be customized to your industry requirements including WSIB compliance.

Register for CPR or First Aid Training

Register today for a CPR or First Aid training course at one of our 30+ locations across Canada and the U.S. Check out our facilities and book your spot now.

How to Register for Private Training

Register for Private First Aid Training today and ensure your fellow colleagues, family and friends get the confidence required to save others. The knowledge from the training is invaluable to everyone, helping you become aware of better assessing your surroundings and any situations that may arise. The training gives you the required confidence to help save and rescue any person who needs immediate help.

The Private Group Request Form is the quickest way to register for Private First Aid Training with Coast2Coast. Once the details are submitted, someone from our office will contact you within 24 hours. Together you can organize the training at a convenient day, time, and place for your private group training. Private training is available in Western Ontario, Eastern Ontario, and the Greater Toronto Area.

We hope you now understand all of the benefits of Private First Aid training!

Register for First Aid Training

Register today for a First Aid Training course and learn how to deal with emergencies and keep your loved ones safe! Check out our facilities and book your spot now.

About the Author

Ashkon Pourheidary, B.Sc. (Hons) — Co-Founder, Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics

Ashkon has been a certified First Aid and CPR instructor since 2011 and an Instructor Trainer since 2013. He is also a certified Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) instructor, Psychological First Aid instructor, and BLS (Basic Life Support) instructor. Ashkon graduated with honours with a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience from the University of Toronto in 2016. As co-founder of Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics, he has helped grow the organization to over 30 locations across Canada and into the United States. Ashkon has served on the First Aid Council for the Canadian Red Cross. He spends his time coaching the team of over 100 instructors at Coast2Coast to ensure that students training at Coast2Coast locations receive the best training experience. Connect on LinkedIn

Why Are Defibrillators Important?

A person is performing CPR on a mannequin outdoors. They are applying chest compressions, wearing gloves. Nearby, a defibrillator machine is visible on the ground. The scene suggests a first aid training session.

Defibrillators or Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are devices that deliver a life-saving shock to someone suffering from cardiac arrest. The electric shock from the defibrillator passes through the chest wall to the heart, often giving a person in cardiac arrest a chance to survive.

Why is First Aid and CPR Recertification Important?

Healthcare professionals learn CPR, First Aid, and Basic Life Support training to help save people in health and other emergencies. However, CPR and First Aid training courses are also compulsory in different places of employment. Many citizens also learn these skills in their private capacity to offer their assistance whenever and wherever required.

Once you have completed your training in any of these lifesaving disciplines, you receive a certificate that proves your skills. Depending on the training, the certificate’s validity has an expiration date, and it is essential to keep the certificate up-to-date by taking the recertification training.

All these first response disciplines, whether to assist someone with a cut, bruise, cardiac arrest, anaphylaxis, choking, drowning, etc., are based on having the skills required to apply the techniques to help the person until professional help arrives.

We are an aging society, and the generation of Baby Boomers is now increasingly reaching the age where they may require medical assistance. The risk of exposure to viruses, infections, and environmental illnesses has also increased in recent years. First Aid and CPR are essential for helping an unconscious person or someone with an injury.

Using the proper techniques can save a life and improve the person’s chances of recovery. CPR and First Aid training is inexpensive and requires just a few hours, ensuring that you have the skills to help in any situation.

However, once you complete the training, you must consider that retraining and recertification are essential to keeping your skills refreshed. Workplaces and school programs often require employees and students to maintain valid certificates. Regular certificate updates benefit you because you retain the confidence to practice your lifesaving skills while also learning any new developments and techniques to save lives.

Workplace Requirements and First Aid

According to WSIB Ontario, First Aid training requirements differ in the workplace. These requirements include the number of people and type of First Aid training required and depend on several conditions. These include the number of shifts, people per shift, and the kind of business activity.

If a company does not use dangerous equipment or chemicals, the required number of employees usually take only Emergency First Aid training. Other companies must provide Standard First Aid training to the prescribed number of employees per shift if they work under more dangerous conditions.

Generally, if less than five employees work per shift, one employee per shift requires valid Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED Level C training and certification. For companies with more than five employees per shift, at least one employee must have a valid Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Level C certificate.

At some workplaces, the requirements are annual recertification, even if the certificate is valid for three years.

Stay Certified, Stay Prepared!

Renew your skills with our recertification courses at Coast2Coast! Keep your knowledge up to date and ensure you’re ready to respond in emergencies. Our expert instructors will guide you through the latest techniques and best practices.

Certificate Validity

Don’t forget the validity period of your First Aid, CPR, or Basic Life Support certification, especially if the certificate is a requirement under Ontario’s Regulation 1101 for your workplace.

CPR Training

CPR or cardiopulmonary training does not include any first aid training. The various levels of CPR training teach candidates how to recognize and respond to breathing emergencies like cardiac arrest, choking, drowning, etc. One of the major learnings would be the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). CPR certificates are valid for three years, but can be recertified multiple times regardless. You need to retake the training and receive a new certificate before the old one expires.

First Aid Certificate Validity

Our Canadian Red Cross Emergency and Standard First Aid & CPR/AED certificates issued by Coast2Coast are valid for three years.

Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Recertification – Standard First Aid & CPR/AED recertification training must be completed before the certificate expires; otherwise, it is invalid. Once you complete the one-day renewal course, your certificate indicates the recertification. After the expiry of the Standard First Aid & CPR/AED recertification, you must complete the full training course again. Training must be alternated between a full course and the Recertification course.

Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED – According to WSIB in Ontario, Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED Level C courses can not be recertified. Before the expiry of this certificate, you need to register for the full training course. The online blended format is an ideal training, allowing you to complete half the training online followed by a 5-hour in-class section.

Basic Life Support Training

Basic Life Support is the intensive training required by people working in healthcare and rescue services. BLS certificates are only valid for one year. Full training is required each time because of the ever-changing duties of these professionals who usually work in fast-paced and demanding environments.

Coast2Coast First Aid & CPR Recertification Courses

Remember, if your Standard First Aid Certificate is about to expire, you need to complete the recertification training before to ensure its validity. All other certificates require you to do the training again. Whatever your CPR and First Aid certification needs, Coast2Coast offers various recertification courses throughout the day to best fit your schedule. Register for one of our Recertification courses from one of our 18 locations all over Ontario.

Register for First Aid Training

Register today for a First Aid training course and learn how to deal with emergencies and keep your loved ones safe! Check out our facilities and book your spot now.

Do I Need First Aid and CPR Training?

Anyone faced with an emergency situation can benefit from First Aid and CPR training because they may be able to save someone’s life. According to statistics, CPR can better the chances of survival from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest if administered immediately as most cases of cardiac arrest happen in the home.

If you’re wondering, “do I need first aid and CPR training?”, we will discuss the benefits, requirements and how to complete a training course.

Benefits of First Aid Training

First Aid training has several benefits because you acquire the knowledge and skills to provide the appropriate care in most emergency situations calmly and confidently.

The skills learned during First Aid training include detecting a stroke, heart attack, anaphylaxis, dealing with injuries, cardiac arrest and more. It also teaches you how to correctly perform CPR when needed. During the training, you will practice treating wounds, burns, choking, drowning, and suffocation in victims.

The skills learned are essential for parents, caregivers, and job seekers in almost all fields. Research also shows that children as young as nine years old can learn the correct administration of CPR. It may be beneficial for you to enroll your children in a Babysitting or Stay Safe training course!

There are two levels of First Aid: Emergency and Standard. We recommend that students complete Standard First Aid because it provides more information and skills compared to Emergency First Aid.

Who Needs First Aid Training?

Most commonly, medical professionals are the ones who require First Aid & CPR training. This group includes doctors, nurses, medical assistants, paramedics, and other rescue workers like lifeguards and ski patrols.

In addition to medical professionals, all childcare providers, law enforcement, firefighters, sports coaches, construction workers, correctional services staff, flight attendants, security guards, electricians and more require first aid & CPR training.

All businesses must also ensure that the required number of workers have First Aid Certification, whether they are shop assistants, factory workers, secretaries, servers, managers, and volunteers. According to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, businesses covered by their fund must have trained personnel and first aid equipment on their premises.

The training must come from a WSIB-approved First Aid provider, and the appropriate number of staff must complete the First Aid course and receive certification according to the guidelines.

Register for First Aid Training

Register today for a First Aid training course and learn how to deal with emergencies and keep your loved ones safe! Check out our facilities and book your spot now.

Required First Aid Training in the Workplace

Mandatory WSIB First Aid training depends on the number of people working per shift at any given time in the workplace.

In workplaces with five or fewer people working per shift, one or more people with an Emergency First Aid & CPR certificate must be present. In workplaces with more than six people working per shift, at least one person must have a Standard First Aid & CPR certificate.

Since all these employees mentioned above work with many people and often work under hazardous conditions, First Aid & CPR training allows them to recognize and assist in health or work-related emergencies.

Is First Aid and CPR Training Mandatory?

First Aid training is not always mandatory. Typically, school programs and workplaces are implementing these certifications, but not every school or business requires this training. Although, there are several reasons why you should get certified regardless of your profession.

Recognizing emergencies and saving lives requires knowledge, skills, and confidence. First Aid training provides these, allowing you to face any situation from choking, accidents caused by the use of dangerous equipment, and even recognizing the signs of cardiac arrest or anaphylaxis. You learn in which order CPR and other techniques are applied, often making the difference between temporary or long-term side effects.

Besides saving a life, First Aid training teaches you to ease the pain and discomfort caused by falls and fever, even if the patient does not need to go to the hospital.

Some situations where basic first aid care is not applied immediately may lead to the victim’s condition deteriorating rapidly. This weakens their chance of survival until emergency medical care (EMS) arrives. Your First Aid training can save valuable time by helping the victim, explaining the situation to emergency services, and their current condition.

Perhaps First Aid training is not mandatory, but it helps you become a valuable link in the chain of another person’s survival in an emergency.

How to Complete First Aid Training

Whether you must get First Aid training for your work or just want to help others, completing First Aid training is far easier than most people think. The time required depends on the training necessary, but it won’t take more than two days for advanced training and one day for basic training.

Coast2Coast has several First Aid Course options to ensure that everyone has the correct training for their needs. Training may be done in the online blended method, allowing you to do the theoretical work in your own time at home before attending an in-person session. As a Canadian Red Cross training partner, Coast2Coast has experienced trainers and provides WSIB-approved certification.

If you thought you were too busy or didn’t know where to go for a First Aid course, Coast2Coast offers you training solutions at a time and place that suit you. You may complete your First Aid & CPR training course at one of our 18 locations across Ontario. If you have any questions about a training course, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Questions About Your Course?

Our team is ready to help you with your questions. Don’t hesitate and contact us today.

Why Do Healthcare Professionals Need BLS Certification?

why healthcare professionals need bls certification

Basic Life Support Certification is proof of completing the foundational BLS training. Participants of the BLS course learn the theoretical and hands-on skills required to ensure the best possible patient outcomes in breathing emergencies and cardiac arrest, particularly in fast-paced environments like hospitals and during emergencies. Healthcare professionals, first responders, rescuers, sports doctors, and dentists need BLS certification.

There are several ways Basic Life Support training can impact your career. Besides providing you with the latest life-saving protocols for breathing emergencies, advanced CPR training increases your confidence levels.

For those that are confused, there is a slight difference between BLS and HCP. Basic Life Support training was previously known as CPR-HCP. Certifications expired every three years. In April 2019, the Canadian government required healthcare professionals to update their training on an annual basis. Due to this change, the course is now called Basic Life Support and it provides students more information and skills required for their profession.

Continue reading to find out why healthcare professionals need BLS certification!

What is BLS?

Basic Life Support training provides healthcare professionals and first responders with the skills required to help unresponsive people during breathing emergencies, trauma, etc. The course includes CPR/AED training for all age groups and various other skills.

One of the most common conditions where BLS is required is cardiac arrest. Other cases where the patient is deprived of their vital oxygen supply include choking or drowning. Within a few minutes, a patient can suffer permanent brain damage from a lack of oxygen. In the absence of advanced equipment, BLS training allows healthcare professionals to maximize the chance of a possible outcome for the patient by administering resuscitation and chest compressions as a team.

During the training, participants learn the correct order of CPR and the cycles of CPR.

Expect to learn the following skills in BLS:

Advanced CPR algorithms (adults, children, and babies)
Use of an automated external defibrillator (AED)
Removing airway obstructions in children and adults
Single and multi rescuer resuscitation
Use of ventilation devices
Anaphylaxis
Trauma
Opioid emergencies
Six rights of medication and more!

BLS requires the correct sequence of chest compressions, airway, and breathing, in adults, children, and infants. These components contribute to blood flow and oxygen in life-threatening situations. During training, you learn about the chest compression rate, chest compression depth, chest recoil, and ventilation. You also learn how to perform this in the proper cycles.

Register for First Aid Training

Register today for a First Aid training course and learn how to deal with emergencies and keep your loved ones safe! Check out our facilities and book your spot now.

The importance of BLS

Promptly administering advanced CPR can save a person’s life from cardiac or respiratory arrest. Recertifying annually keeps healthcare professionals updated with any new developments.

BLS training teaches students the proper way to administer the life-saving skills required by healthcare professionals and other related industries. These skills are vital for people who offer direct patient care. At Coast2Coast, we offer private/group training for healthcare industry teams; reach out to our customer service reps to find the best option for your needs.

BLS Certification Validity

Basic Life Support certificates remain valid for one year after they are issued. In order to take our Renewal course, you must hold a BLS certificate. Annual retraining ensures that participants retain their confidence and skills. Besides the regular retraining, make sure to get your BLS certificate from an accredited provider such as Coast2Coast First Aid!

Coast2Coast BLS Programs

Coast2Coast has multiple programs to choose from, depending on your work requirements. These are Basic Life Support (HCP), Airway Management & Oxygen Therapy, and Accredited Heart and Stroke Basic Life Support. All the courses teach various life-saving skills, including recognizing cardiac arrest. Participants learn how to respond promptly and confidently, applying the elements of Basic Life Support.

BLS is a 4-hour training course available in morning, afternoon, and evening classes to ensure everyone finds a time slot that suits them. The Basic Life Support and Renewal courses have the same duration, but the Renewal option is offered at a lower rate. If you register for the Renewal, you must bring a copy of your current certificate to class to receive your discount.

Airway Management & Oxygen Therapy is a two-hour intensive training course that provides the skills to offer supplemental oxygen and create an airway when needed. Students learn how to create oropharyngeal, nasopharyngeal, and supraglottic airways in patients. This training also covers the safe handling and assembling of equipment such as oxygen tanks. Oftentimes, this training is taken together with Basic Life Support training by healthcare professionals, first responders, and rescue workers.

Coast2Coast provides Canadian Red Cross Basic Life Support courses in the Greater Toronto Area, Western Ontario, and Eastern Ontario. Learn more about the locations, dates, and times of the various BLS courses HERE.

We hope you’ve learned why healthcare professionals need BLS certification!

Master the Essentials of Life Support!

Join our Basic Life Support (BLS) course and learn critical skills to save lives in emergencies. Our expert instructors will guide you through hands-on training and the latest techniques to help you respond effectively.

First Aid Training Vs. CPR

First aid and CPR are both procedures administered in emergencies to help save lives. The difference between first aid and CPR is that first aid covers a broad spectrum of life-saving skills, including CPR. On the other hand, CPR training primarily focuses on how to perform CPR, use an AED and more to resuscitate unconscious victims that have no pulse.

What Is the Difference Between First Aid Training And CPR?

Both CPR and first aid are essential procedures that can help save lives. You can take a CPR class without first aid, but a first aid course through the Canadian Red Cross always includes CPR.

First Aid Training

During first aid training, you will learn a wide variety of procedures needed to help someone who is feeling ill or has suffered trauma from an accident. These procedures include treating deep cuts, burns, stopping bleeding, choking, allergic reactions, how to put a splint on a fractured bone, etc. You are trained to offer assistance to victims by relieving their pain and preventing them from suffering further injuries until professional medical assistance arrives.

CPR Training

During cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training, you are taught how to focus on someone who is experiencing cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest is caused by sudden heart dysfunction. Any person suffering the condition will be unconscious and not able to breathe. CPR is also a form of first aid but applies only to cardiac arrest.

CPR is the only treatment that can help a victim of cardiac arrest because their heart has already stopped beating, and their condition is critical. The faster CPR is administered, the better the chance of the person’s revival and survival. Once revived, the person must be taken to a medical specialist immediately for further assessment of their condition and the cause.

A patient suffering from cardiac arrest cannot breathe. Therefore, the oxygen supply needed by the body is cut off. Since cells within the body rely on oxygen within the blood, damage starts taking place immediately when it is suddenly cut off. CPR training teaches you how to provide artificial heartbeat and restore blood circulation (also with the help of an AED), helping prevent damage to other vital organs. CPR training teaches you how to monitor the patient’s pulse and the importance of performing CPR until professional responders arrive.

CPR is Based on Specific Procedures

CPR training teaches you the correct procedures that must be carried out when helping a person suffering from cardiac arrest. During the training course, you are taught how each step follows the other and how to administer CPR without injuring the patient. Students will also learn how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), a specific tool used on victims of cardiac arrest.

Inquire about CPR Training

Do you have questions regarding CPR training? Contact us today! Our customer service representatives are ready to assist you.

Is BLS The Same as CPR And First Aid?

There are several levels of CPR training. Namely, CPR A, CPR C, and CPR BLS. If you are unsure which level is the right one for you, here is a short explanation of each. Of course, before deciding, you should know that if you are getting CPR training for your job, you must choose the level that meets the requirements.

Basic Life Support (BLS)

Basic life support (BLS) is the level required if you are planning to become a professional first responder, paramedic, firefighter, or healthcare provider (doctor or nurse). Up until early 2019, the Canadian Red Cross taught the HCP (Health Care Provider) level of CPR, but then it was replaced with BLS.

The training only takes a few hours, and certification is valid for one year.

CPR C Training

CPR C training is very popular because it includes techniques to assist choking/unconscious adults, children, and infants. During the training, you are also taught how to apply two-rescuer CPR and use an AED. The training is required for all people working with children, those working in healthcare, and for most workplaces. Recertification is required every three years.

CPR A Training

Some workplaces just require CPR A training. During CPR A training you learn to assist adults who are choking or require CPR.

Is It Better to Take A CPR And First Aid Training Online or In-Person?

Online courses are very good if you want to learn the basics of first aid and CPR but don’t want to commute and want to complete it at your own pace. However, an all-in class or blended course is often the better option if you are learning first aid and CPR for your workplace or care for children and the elderly. By attending training, you get to practice everything you learn, especially the use of the equipment. This not only enhances your skills but gives you the added confidence to practice everything you learned during the course.

The Online Only training does not provide you with a WSIB approved certificate, but an all-in-class or online blended training does.

Make sure that the course you use is offered by an accredited training agency with high standards and highly qualified Canadian Red Cross instructors. Find a training facility near you!

Register to Earn CPR Certification!

Find which CPR certification is best for you!

Importance of Airway, Breathing and Circulation Check

importance of airway breathing circulation

Understanding the steps to perform first aid and CPR is vital to helping preserve life and prevent further harm to someone. There are certain universal precautions used by professional rescuers when providing medical care, including personal protective equipment and a well-stocked first aid kit.

For the immediate assessment and the treatment of patients who are injured or ill, the airway, breathing, and circulation check is important.

Understanding the ABCs

One of the most common terms one hears in first aid and CPR classes is ABC – which stands for airway, breathing, and circulation. Depending on the experience of the first aider, after the ABCs have been secured, they can then focus on the additional treatments required.

Order of ABC

When assessing a person, Airway, Breathing, and Circulation are the right order to follow in emergency procedures to ensure CPR is administered correctly. Training and practice are vital to knowing and maintaining the three steps, and this is offered through various levels of First Aid and CPR courses.

In an emergency where someone has collapsed, the first step is to check the scene for safety. If the scene is safe, then you can check the victim for responsiveness. If the victim doesn’t respond, then the next step is to perform the ABCs.

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Airway

Making sure the airway is clear is the most relevant step when practicing first aid on a victim. Any obstruction can result in choking, something which is fatal. If you notice that the victim is crying or speaking, then their airway is open.

Immediately place the victim flat on their back. Open the victim’s airway by tilting back the head with one hand while lifting the chin up with the other. This is known as the head-tilt/chin-lift. This technique keeps the tongue from blocking the airway and opens up the epiglottis.

Breathing

Once the airway is clear, the next step is to determine if the victim is breathing. Here, the principle is to look and listen for breath by placing a cheek close to their nose or mouth while looking at the victim’s chest. It shouldn’t take longer than 10 seconds to determine if the person is breathing.

Sometimes a victim may show signs of breathing by gasping. This is called agonal respiration. Agonal respiration is not normal breathing and verifies that the victim is suffering from cardiac arrest.

Circulation

The last step of the ABCs is to check the victim’s circulation. This is where you check for life-threatening external bleeding. Start at the head and work your way down to the toes. If you discover life-threatening bleeding, try to control it as soon as possible.

Once you complete the ABCs, it is important to call 911/EMS. If possible, try to find a first aid kit or ask a bystander to assist you.

What Next?

Depending on what is going on with the victim, you may need to begin providing first aid or CPR before EMS arrives. It is important to assist for the following reasons: the victim is choking or experiencing anaphylaxis, they have life-threatening bleeding or they are unresponsive and not breathing.

For someone who is choking, you may be required to alternate between two of the following: abdominal thrusts, back blows or chest thrusts. This is only necessary if the person is suffering from complete choking (unable to speak, cough, breathe, etc.). If the person is experiencing anaphylaxis and has an epi-pen, help them locate and use it if they need assistance.

For life-threatening external bleeding, apply pressure and apply a dressing. Continue holding pressure to stop the bleed. You may need to continue adding additional dressings. If the bleeding will not stop, then it might be necessary to use a tourniquet.

If the person is not breathing, the next step is to promote circulation so that the person’s blood can be enriched with oxygen. CPR must immediately be given. With one hand on the lower part of the person’s sternum, place the other hand directly on top. For an adult, you will need to push about 2 inches down at a steady pace. Compressions are performed at a rate of 30 for every two breaths. If both of your breaths go in, continue providing 30 compressions and 2 breaths until the person becomes responsive or EMS arrives.

Last word

In any type of incident that involves a medical or trauma emergency, a special order must be followed when offering first aid. This is referred to as the ABCs (airway, breathing, and circulation) which may be applied to diabetic emergencies, airway obstruction, respiratory failure, trauma, and overdoses. If a patient is suffering cardiac arrest, compressions are of utmost importance and performed first.

It is mandatory for people in various occupations to have First Aid and CPR training. A Canadian Red Cross course allows everyone to learn the important skills required to help people in various life-threatening situations. Learning the ABCs and ensuring that the certificate remains valid is important for anyone wanting to be prepared to help someone in any situation.

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5 Reasons First Aid Is A Must For All Canadian

5 reasons first aid training is a must for every canadian

First Aid is the immediate care given to an injured or sick person, ensuring the victim is kept alive. This immediate response also makes sure they avoid future disabilities and minimize the effects of their injury or illness.

In Canada – every workplace – depending on the types of hazards, number of employees, and its distance from a place where proper medical assistance can be offered is required to provide a certain level of first aid training to its employees.

Despite the workplace regulations, here are the 5 reasons first aid training is a must for every Canadian:

1. Becoming Confident in Caring

When faced with a work-related or other emergency, people with first aid training are better equipped to take charge of a situation to help prevent a deterioration in the condition of the victim. Even basic first aid knowledge provides enough abilities and skills to administer first aid in most emergencies. Additionally, first aid training also offers every person the boost required to get them through their daily lives in non-medical related work.

2. Training to Save a Life and Beyond

First aid training helps save lives by allowing trained people to immediately give appropriate treatment, helping to reduce the recovery time. For victims, this can mean the difference between a shorter or longer recovery time.

A first aid course teaches people to remain calm in emergencies. They also learn simple acronyms, helping them recall the steps required to ensure the victim is given the treatment required in the right order. First aid training makes everyone more confident and comfortable, giving them effective control in any situation.

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Certify for First Aid training learn skills that increase their confidence and willingness to respond to others in a crisis as you complete the course with us. Call our toll-free number to know more.

3. Offering Patient Comfort

Pain and suffering are not only felt by those patients requiring hospitalization after the first aid treatment. In some accidents, or when a patient is injured or feeling ill, knowing how to respond provides immediate relief and comfort. First aid training includes simple techniques to help relieve discomfort. Some examples of these include the correct application of an ice pack, using appropriate bandages, providing emotional support with a calm demeanor that allows patients to feel secure and less anxious.

4. Preventing Patient Deterioration

Some types of accidents and illnesses require immediate first aid care to prevent the situation from deteriorating (in some instances rapidly). People trained in first aid can provide immediate basic care by helping to stabilize a patient until the arrival of emergency medical services. During a first aid training course, trainees are taught to use basic household items in the absence of a first aid kit.

One of the most important aspects of first aid training is the collection of information about the cause of the incident and the patient’s condition. Once emergency services arrive, this information is valuable in saving time and ensuring the patient receives the correct treatment immediately. This makes someone with first aid knowledge an important person in the survival link.

5. Self-care and Safety

Besides caring for others, a first aid course also teaches participants to look after themselves and to make safety a priority. This means they can keep safe while placing themselves in a position to help others.

Healthy living and lifestyle habits are ingrained, helping first aiders make the correct choices to help decrease potential risks to illnesses like heart disease. They are also taught to look out for potential hazards in their environment.

Be Prepared

The choice of first aid training depends on the course required by the individual or their employer. Whatever the course, trainees are prepared to face various situations involving emergencies, allowing them to provide rapid and knowledgeable treatment with the confidence required.

Now you are ready to register for a first aid training course! At Coast2Coast, we provide multiple training courses throughout Ontario. Take a look at our training facilities and find one close to you.

Register for a First Aid & CPR Training Course

Choose from any of our locations across Ontario and gain the knowledge and skills to save a life!

Is the EMR Exam Difficult to Pass?

Certification
Locations to Take the Training

IN THIS BLOG

Taking the Exam
Preparing for the EMR Exam
Certification
Locations to Take the Training

Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) courses are far more intense than First Aid CPR training. First responders are trained to provide care in a pre-hospital setting, offering professional life support. During the 8-day (80 hours) course participants cover theory and practical lessons of the different scenarios they will face. They learn how to do a patient assessment and offer life-saving care.

EMRs are crucial in assisting emergency medical providers in many situations, including accidents, life threatening emergencies, emergency childbirth, and etc. Assistance includes helping with a patient’s resuscitation, airway management, providing first aid for wounds and broken bones, and preparing patients for transport. EMR training includes stabilizing spinal and neck injuries, offering protection from infection, controlling bleeding, and stabilizing patients suffering from hyperthermia or exposure to hazardous substances.

Taking the Exam

On completion of the EMR course, in Mississauga, for instance, candidates are required to take the examination to assess their skills. The exam is divided into two sections, the written and the practical test.

What does the practical exam consist of?

During the practical test, candidates are given two complete scenarios to treat. One consists of a medical emergency (e.i Child with asthma) and the other a trauma emergency (e.i burns to chest) which has more complications because of the nature of the injury.

There will be standardized scenarios that contain the context of what has happened to the injured individual along with all the details for the vitals in order to make the scene more realistic. Example below:

“It’s midday on a Saturday in the fall, when you respond to an emergency about a pedestrian struck by a vehicle on a busy street. As you approach the scene, you see that the police have blocked off the street and rerouted traffic; the scene is safe. Upon reaching the female patient, you notice she is not moving. She appears to be in her mid-50s. The police are speaking to witnesses; however, information is limited. The patient is supine on the street, and police state she is approximately 30 feet from where the impact occurred.” (Reference: Canadian Red Cross Society)

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EMR and FR training prepares students who are/wish to work in a first responder role! Call us, toll-free, to learn more about our Emergency Medical Responder and First Responder training courses.

Scenarios differ in their complexity and the intervention that is expected from the professional responder to perform. However, regardless of the scenario, candidates are expected to successfully demonstrate:

Scene Assessment
- Environment
- Hazards
- Mechanism of Injury
- Number of patients
- Resources
- Personal Protective Equipment
Primary Assessment
- Introductions
- Patient Appearance
- Level of Responsiveness
- Spinal Motion Restriction (if needed)
- Airway, Breathing, Circulation
- Skin
- SpO2
- Rapid Body Assessment
- Transport Decision
- Patient Positioning
Secondary Assessment
- SAMPLE questions
- Pain Scale (OPQRST)
Vital signs
- Pulse
- Respiration
- Blood Pressure
- Pupils
- Skin
- Level of Responsiveness/ Glasgow Coma Scale
- SpO2
- Body Temperature
- Blood Glucose Level
Head to toe physical assessment
Ongoing checking of vitals

Depending on the scenario, there will be at least one injured individual and one bystander present.

Candidates will be completing the scenario in pairs, that is there will be responder 1 and responder 2. The former is expected to take the lead while the latter will provide assistance as some of the interventions may require more than one responder.

What does the written test consist of?

In a test that encompasses the whole textbook, candidates are called to answer 100 questions. The sections candidates are questioned on include:

Infection control
Anatomy and physiology
Assessment of patients
Airway management
Circulatory emergencies
Shock
Hemorrhage and soft tissue trauma
Musculoskeletal injuries
Chest abdominal and pelvic injuries
Head and spinal injuries
Acute and chronic illnesses
Poisoning
Environmental illness
Pregnancy, labour, and delivery
Special populations
Crisis intervention
Reaching, lifting, and extricating patients
Transportation
Multiple casualty incident
Pharmacology
Marine environment
Workplace

Questions based on patient care are focused mostly on adult and geriatric care, but also include pediatric care.

Questions About FR or EMR?

If you have any questions regarding an upcoming FR or EMR course, please email us. Our customer service team will respond as soon as possible.

Preparing for the EMR Exam

Before taking the exam, participants are required to have 100% attendance of the course. They must pay close attention during the course because this is the first step in helping prepare for both the practical and cognitive sections of the exam. All the topics presented by the instructors are critical, and participants are encouraged to ask questions.

Studying is important for passing the exam, and the notes are particularly useful. The questions are multiple-choice, and keep in mind that there is only one correct answer.

Certification

Once emergency medical responders (EMRs)receive their certification, they can save lives by providing immediate aid and interventions for patients during the time before paramedics and more advanced care arrive at the scene. They are also present during the transportation of patients to a hospital.

Their training teaches them to quickly assess a patient and determine the best way to treat them. EMRs also play a vital role in relaying important information concerning the patient’s condition and the initial care they provided to nurses and doctors upon arriving at the hospital. They also clean and disinfect any equipment or supplies that they use while treating a patient.

Once a candidate successfully demonstrates all the above skills in both the multiple-choice and practical scenarios, they are issued their EMR certificate. The certificate is valid for 3 years. Recertification of this program consists of a 4 day (40-hour) session to review all skills and knowledge but the pace will be much faster than the original course.

Locations to Take the Training

Coast2Coast First Aid offers the Emergency Medical Responder course at our locations across Ontario:

North York – #216, 180 Steeles Ave. W, Thornhill, Ontario

Toronto – 635A Bloor St. W, Toronto, Ontario

Markham – #2, 1080 Tapscott Rd, Markham, Ontario

Brampton – 83 Kennedy Rd. S, Brampton, Ontario

Hamilton (Stoney Creek) – #104, 43 Keefer Court, Hamilton, Ontario

London – #304A, 717 Richmond St, London, Ontario

Ottawa – 385 Rideau St, Ottawa

If you have any questions regarding enrollment, please do not hesitate to contact us toll-free at 866-291-9121 or via email at contact@c2cfirstaidaquatics.com.

Register for FR or EMR Training

Ready to register for your professional responder training course? Follow the links below to get started. We offer First Responder, First Responder Recertification, Emergency Medical Responder, Emergency Medical Responder Upgrade and Emergency Medical Responder Recertification.