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Should all people do a first-aid course before they become parents?

Public Comments

1. yes they should i took a first aid class, and gosh even for little kids it must be abig reponsibility, like they could save their own childrens lives so yeah.

2. It's a good idea to take a first aid and CPR course (perhaps water lifesaving as well) regardless of becoming a parent or not.

3. NO What's so hard about a bandaid and peroxide

4. i think everyone should know general first aid but to force people to do a course before having kids?? i dunno about all that...

i am certified in first-aid by the red cross though...

5. Yes you should learn infant cpr and first aid. If something were to ever happen you would wish you did
and most classes are free through the red cross

6. It would be nice for them to do it and better for the child but they shouldnt HAVE to. As parets they do what they think is best for there child....but when ppl go around teling ppl what they have to do thats just wrong

7. When my first child was 15 months old, I worked through a secured babysitting service and babysat another mom's baby boy. A secured service makes sure that the babysitter has no police record, that the home is inspected and safe, and that she knows CPR. I am not sure that I would have taken the CPR course if it were not for that.

About 2 months after recieving the CPR training, my son was eating a piece of melba toast. He choked on it and I immediately took action. I don't know if I would have known how to do it properly on a little one if had not been for that training. You do not use the same methods as you do for adults. It may have saved my son's life.

About 5 years ago I went to be recertified in CPR and took my two older kids to learn it to. A few techniques had changed and it was nice to clear the cobwebs out of the attic as to how to do emergency care. I am glad we did it.

8. Yes

9. yes. Household accidents account for many childhood trips to the ER. As a former paramedic, I can say those skilsl ahve made me feel more prepared as a first time parent. I think it wise for anyone living in the home and involved in the care of an infant to take a CPR/First Aid class.

In my case, the hospital offered a quick 90 class on CPR and basic first aid before we left. I think this was very benefircial to those that don't have medical training.

Your local Red Cross has many classes available for first aid aND CPR.

10. That is a great idea. I think that if you want to be a responsible parent, then you will take a course. Seriously, it only takes one afternoon, there is no reason not to.

11. My husband and I had to learn and demonstrate our understanding of first aid before we could take our daughter home because she was born with special needs.I think all parents should learn it before they take their newborn home. I have saved her from choking and we have each done CPR. If we hadn't learned it she would not be here today.