How Long Does it Take to Learn First Aid?

First aid can take just one day to learn, but months or years to perfect. Of course, this depends on several factors. Keep reading to learn about how you can learn first aid and some resources to help speed the process along.

What is First Aid?

First aid refers to the initial and immediate care given to an injured or ill person before professional medical help arrives. It is a set of medical techniques and procedures designed to stabilize the patient, prevent further harm, and preserve life until advanced medical assistance can be provided. First aid skills are aimed at assessing the situation, applying appropriate interventions, and offering temporary relief and support to the injured or ill individual. 

The history of first aid can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where basic medical practices were employed to treat injuries and illnesses. However, the modern concept of first aid as a formalized system of care emerged in the late 19th century. The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, established by Henry Dunant, played a crucial role in promoting the importance of first aid and creating standardized practices. Over time, first aid training programs and organizations have developed to educate the general public, healthcare professionals, and emergency responders. 

Benefits of Learning First Aid?

Eight in ten adults (85%) would be unable to help someone collapsed and not breathing. This alarming statistic underscores the critical importance of learning first aid. Acquiring first aid skills can have numerous benefits, both for individuals and their communities. For example, first aid knowledge enables individuals to respond effectively to injuries and illnesses, minimizing their impact and reducing the severity of the condition. Prompt and appropriate interventions can prevent complications such as infection or further injury. The ability to control bleeding, immobilize fractures, or administer appropriate first aid measures can significantly reduce the long-term impact of an injury or illness. 

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Learning first aid doesn’t just equip individuals with the skills to help others. It also enhances personal safety. By understanding how to prevent accidents, respond to medical emergencies, and create safer environments, individuals can reduce their own risks and promote a culture of safety. First aid training provides knowledge about potential hazards, appropriate safety measures, and how to respond to emergencies, empowering individuals to protect themselves and those around them.

Average Time It Takes to Learn First Aid

According to the Red Cross, learning first aid can take just a few hours. However, the time it takes to become proficient in first aid can vary depending on several factors. The duration of first aid training can range from a basic introductory course of a few hours to more comprehensive programs that span multiple days or weeks. 

The length of the first aid course itself is a primary factor. Basic first aid courses typically cover essential skills such as CPR, choking response, and wound care and can be completed in a matter of hours. On the other hand, more comprehensive courses can require several days of training. Some people may also need additional time for practice and processing to feel like they’ve truly mastered first aid. 

Other Factors

The time it takes to learn first aid can vary depending on several factors. Here are some of the most common factors that can affect the duration of learning first aid, including level of certification, learning style and aptitude, prior knowledge and experience, and availability of training resources. 

Level of Certification

The level of certification in first aid refers to the specific type and depth of training one receives, typically offered by various organizations and institutions. Basic first aid, for example, provides foundational knowledge and skills to respond to common emergencies. Basic first aid certification courses are often relatively short in duration, ranging from a few hours to a couple days. One such class is Basic First Aid for Everyone, taught by the Bronxville Adult School. 

Advanced first aid courses build upon the knowledge gained in basic first aid and provide a more comprehensive understanding of emergency response. Advanced first aid courses are generally longer and more in-depth, often lasting several days. Other types of first aid courses that may take longer than a day include first responder training, advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), and wilderness first aid. For example, SureFire CPR offers an ACLS class called ACLS—Advanced Cardiac Life Support—Renewal. While this class is only six hours long, it requires prerequisite skills that will have taken additional time to learn. 

Learning Style and Aptitude

Learning style and aptitude refer to individual preferences, strengths, and abilities when it comes to acquiring and processing new information. Understanding one’s learning style and recognizing personal aptitude can enhance the effectiveness of the learning process. In addition, some types of learners may prefer a more drawn out learning process, so they’ll be able to absorb more effectively. 

For example, let’s say that you’re a learner who benefits from self-study. You can use online resources to learn first aid, but you’ll likely need more time than your peers who are learning from instructors. A kinesthetic learner, who learns best through hands-on experiences and physical activities, may take longer to process the information from an online class but may benefit from in-person activities. If you’re a student who prefers online learning, then you might be interested in the Infant Safety and CPR Webinar offered by Birth Day Presence, which covers pediatric first aid and resuscitation. 

Prior Knowledge and Experience

Prior knowledge and experience play a significant role in the learning process of first aid. Individuals with a medical background such as healthcare professionals, may have a head start in learning first aid. Their prior knowledge of anatomy, physiology, medical terminology provides a foundation that can facilitate understanding of first aid principles and techniques. 

Individuals who have undergone previous first aid training also have a solid foundation to build upon. They may have familiarity with basic techniques such as CPR, wound care, or splinting. Previous training allows for a quicker review and reinforcement of knowledge, enabling learners to focus more on advanced concepts or specialized areas of first aid. 

Availability of Training Resources

The availability of training resources plays a vital role in the accessibility and effectiveness of learning first aid. The precedence of local training centers that offer first aid courses, for example, is crucial for individuals seeking formal instruction. Without in-person training centers, students will have to turn to online resources. This is a totally acceptable way to learn first aid, but learners who prefer in-person training may need more time to fully learn their skills. 

For students who are budget conscious, many organizations, government agencies, and healthcare institutions provide publicly available first aid resources. These resources can include downloadable PDF guides, infographics, or step-by-step instructions for common first aid procedures. Publicly accessible materials are beneficial, but may take additional time to learn and absorb without an instructor. 

What to Know Before Learning First Aid: 

Learning first aid can vary in difficulty depending on factors such as prior knowledge, practical application, and the complexity of medical knowledge taught. While basic concepts and skills are generally straightforward to understand, practical application and the need for some medical knowledge may require practice and familiarity. Emotional preparedness and progression to advanced skills can also influence the level of difficulty. Overall, with proper training and practice, individuals can become proficient in first aid, and the level of difficulty can be considered moderate. 

The prerequisites for learning first aid are typically minimal. They may include meeting a minimum age requirement, having basic reading and comprehension skills, possessing a reasonable level of physical ability, and demonstrating emotional resilience. However, first aid courses are designed to be accessible to individuals of various backgrounds and abilities, and trainers are skilled in accommodating learners’ needs. Ultimately, anyone with an interest in learning first aid can benefit from the training. 

The cost of learning first aid can vary depending on factors such as the type of course, the organization providing the training, and the level of certification sought. Basic courses typically range from $30 to $100, while more comprehensive programs or specialized certifications can cost a few hundred dollars. Discounts or financial assistance may be available, and some employers may cover the cost for their employees. 

Can I Learn First Aid for Free / on My Own?

Yes, it’s possible to learn first aid for free on your own. There are several resources available that can help you acquire basic first aid knowledge and skills without incurring any cost. Online platforms such as websites, video tutorials, and mobile apps, offer educational materials. While self-learning may not provide official certification, it can still equip you with valuable life-saving skills and knowledge to respond effectively in emergency situations. However, it’s important to remember that practical hands-on experience and formal training courses offer a more comprehensive learning experience.

Key Takeaways

• First aid refers to the initial and immediate care given to an injured or ill person before professional medical help arrives.
• Learning first aid has many benefits, including the ability to stabilize the injuries of others and oneself. 
• Learning basic first aid can take just a few hours, while more advanced courses take more time. 
• There are many factors that affect how long it takes to learn first aid, including level of certification, learning styles and aptitude, prior knowledge and experience, and the availability of training resources. 
• You can contact CourseHorse to find options for online or in-person training, including private group sessions.