We now offer a two-year CPR/AED for the Healthcare Provider certificate. Created to allow greater flexibility in maintaining professional-level CPR/AED skills, the new certification is available for doctors, nurses, nursing assistants, medical and nursing students, EMTs, dental professionals, respiratory therapists, physical therapists, athletic trainers and other allied health personnel.

However, following OSHA recommendations, the Red Cross continues to strongly encourage professionals to retrain in CPR/AED annually and to refresh their skills at least every six months. Research shows that individuals with repeated training in CPR have greater knowledge retention and more confidence in their skills than those persons who infrequently participate in training.

Lifeguards who complete the CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer course will receive a new certificate, CPR/AED for Lifeguards. Because of the seasonal nature of their work environments, this certification will be valid for one year.