If you have searched for BLS, ACLS or PALS certification and seen terms such as CPR Verification Station or Self-Guided Skills Session, you may be wondering what actually happens when you arrive.
A CPR Verification Station is a technology-guided training setup used for applicable hands-on CPR and resuscitation skills. At Citywide CPR, participants physically perform the required skills using training equipment while the system provides instructions and real-time audio and visual feedback. Citywide CPR
The short answer: Self-Guided does not mean online-only, and it does not mean you simply watch a computer screen. You still practice and perform skills on training equipment; the difference is that the technology guides the session rather than a traditional instructor continuously leading the participant through a classroom.
What Is a CPR Verification Station?
A CPR Verification Station™ learning center is a technology-guided environment where applicable hands-on CPR and resuscitation skills can be completed during a Self-Guided Skills Session.
Instead of joining a traditional instructor-led group skills session, you work directly with the training equipment and follow the system’s guidance.
The station can provide real-time audio and visual feedback while you perform applicable skills. Depending on the course and skill being performed, feedback can address aspects of CPR performance such as compression rate, compression depth, recoil and ventilation performance. Citywide CPR
The purpose is still hands-on skills training. The technology simply changes how the experience is guided and how performance feedback is delivered.
What Is a Self-Guided Skills Session?
A Self-Guided Skills Session is the hands-on portion of an applicable AHA training pathway completed with technology-guided equipment.
At Citywide CPR, the participant follows the station’s instructions, physically performs the required skills and responds to the feedback provided during the session.
The experience is different from a traditional instructor-led classroom, but it is not simply an online course.
Citywide CPR describes its Self-Guided Learning model as applicable cognitive learning completed independently followed by required hands-on skills practice and testing using approved equipment with real-time feedback. Citywide CPR
Is an Instructor Physically Standing Beside Me?
Not throughout the Self-Guided Skills Session.
The session is designed to be Self-Guided, meaning the technology provides the instructions and feedback as you work through the applicable skills.
That does not mean you are left without support. Citywide CPR support is available when assistance with the session or equipment is needed.
The important distinction is between Self-Guided and traditional instructor-led training: the system guides the participant instead of an instructor continuously standing beside the participant and directing every step.
Is Self-Guided Training Really Hands-On?
Yes.
Self-Guided refers to how the session is guided, not to eliminating hands-on training.
Participants physically perform the applicable skills on training manikins and equipment. The station provides guidance and feedback while the participant works through the required skills. Citywide CPR
How Does a CPR Verification Station Know If I’m Performing CPR Correctly?
The training equipment and technology measure applicable aspects of your performance and provide feedback during the session.
For CPR skills, that feedback can include measurements related to:
- Compression rate
- Compression depth
- Chest recoil
- Ventilation performance, where applicable
The system uses that information to provide real-time audio and visual guidance while you work through the skill.
This gives the participant an opportunity to understand what needs to be adjusted while completing the hands-on portion of the session. Citywide CPR
What Happens During a Self-Guided Skills Session?
The exact skills vary by course, but the overall experience can be thought of as a simple sequence.
1. Complete the Required Online Learning
For applicable BLS, ACLS and PALS pathways, you complete the required AHA online learning before your hands-on appointment.
This allows the cognitive portion of the training to be completed independently before you arrive for the skills session.
2. Arrive for Your Scheduled Skills Session
You arrive at your selected Citywide CPR location for your appointment and use the CPR Verification Station™ learning center.
The equipment and session instructions guide you through the applicable hands-on requirements.
3. Practice and Perform Skills
You physically work with the training equipment and practice and perform skills while receiving real-time feedback.
If the system indicates that an adjustment is needed, you can respond to the guidance as you continue through the applicable skills.
4. Complete the Required Skills Component
After successfully completing the applicable requirements, the course pathway can be processed according to current AHA procedures.
AHA eCards are provided after successful completion of the applicable course requirements and processing procedures.
Can a CPR Verification Station Be Used for BLS, ACLS and PALS?
Yes. Citywide CPR offers American Heart Association Self-Guided Learning for applicable BLS, ACLS and PALS certification and renewal pathways at CPR Verification Station™ learning centers. Citywide CPR
The important point is that the station is not a separate replacement certification. It is part of the applicable training pathway.
The online learning and hands-on skills requirements still depend on the course you are taking and the pathway you select.
What Is the Difference Between Online + Skills and Skills Only?
The difference is whether you need to complete the applicable AHA online course as part of your registration.
Online + Skills
Online + Skills is appropriate when you need both the applicable online learning and the required hands-on skills session.
For example, someone completing the full BLS pathway can complete the applicable HeartCode BLS online course and then attend the scheduled Self-Guided Skills Session.
Skills Only
Skills Only is intended for someone who has already completed the applicable AHA HeartCode online course and needs the hands-on skills component.
For BLS, ACLS or PALS, this means the participant should have the applicable current HeartCode completion documentation before selecting the Skills Only pathway. Citywide CPR’s BLS guidance similarly distinguishes Online + Skills from Skills Only based on whether the official AHA online course has already been completed. Citywide CPR
An existing or previous provider eCard by itself is not the same thing as having completed the current HeartCode online course required for a Skills Only pathway.
Can I Use a CPR Verification Station for Certification Renewal?
For applicable BLS, ACLS and PALS pathways, yes.
Citywide CPR offers Self-Guided Learning for both certification and renewal through applicable Online + Skills and Skills Only options. Citywide CPR
If you are renewing, check what your employer, school, clinical program or other organization requires before registering. Certification requirements can vary depending on the situation.
If you have already completed the applicable current HeartCode course, the Skills Only pathway may be appropriate. Otherwise, Online + Skills may be the applicable choice.
What Should I Expect When I Arrive?
If you have never used a CPR Verification Station before, the experience may be unfamiliar at first.
You can expect to:
- Use the scheduled training station and equipment.
- Follow on-screen and audio instructions.
- Physically perform the applicable CPR and resuscitation skills.
- Receive real-time feedback about your performance.
- Make adjustments based on that feedback.
- Complete the required hands-on skills component for your course pathway.
Citywide CPR’s skills demonstration resources can also help you preview CPR techniques before your appointment. The Skills Demonstration Video Library includes BLS, ACLS, PALS and Heartsaver skills videos. Citywide CPR
See What a CPR Verification Station Looks Like
If you have never used a Self-Guided Skills Session before, seeing the process can make the experience easier to understand.
The video below shows the CPR Verification Station and Self-Guided Skills experience so you can see the type of environment and equipment used during the session.
How Can I Find a CPR Verification Station Near Me?
If you are searching for CPR classes near me or BLS certification near me, location and appointment availability are important parts of choosing a training option.
Citywide CPR has CPR Verification Station locations in multiple cities and states. You can use the Citywide CPR Location Finder to search for a location and review available training options. Citywide CPR
When choosing a location, make sure the course and skills pathway match the certification you need.
For example, if you need BLS renewal, confirm that you are selecting the appropriate BLS option rather than a Heartsaver CPR course. If you need ACLS or PALS, select the corresponding certification pathway.
Who Uses Self-Guided Skills Sessions?
Self-Guided Skills Sessions can be useful for healthcare professionals and students who need applicable AHA certification or renewal while working around other responsibilities.
Potential participants include:
- Nurses
- Physicians and other healthcare providers
- EMTs and paramedics
- Nursing students
- Medical students
- Dental professionals
- Other clinical professionals
The appropriate certification depends on the person’s role and the requirements of their employer, school, clinical program or organization.
Citywide CPR’s location network currently offers BLS, ACLS and PALS certification and renewal with flexible appointment options at many locations. Citywide CPR
Can Healthcare Organizations Use Self-Guided Skills Sessions for Employees?
Yes, when the applicable course and organizational requirements make that approach appropriate.
An organization can allow employees to complete their required online learning and schedule Self-Guided Skills Sessions individually or in smaller groups at a nearby CPR Verification Station™ learning center.
This can be useful when employees work different shifts or when taking the entire team away from work at the same time is difficult.
For organizations that prefer to keep employees onsite, Citywide CPR also offers portable skills verification options through RQI-P GO. More information is available through BLS, ACLS & PALS training for healthcare staff.
What Should I Do Before Booking My Skills Session?
Before registering, confirm four things:
- Which certification do you need? BLS, ACLS, PALS or another AHA course?
- Does your employer, school or organization require a specific course or pathway?
- Have you already completed the applicable current HeartCode online course?
- Do you need Online + Skills or Skills Only?
Getting those details right before booking can help prevent selecting the wrong course or skills option.
If you need additional preparation, Citywide CPR’s Self-Guided CPR Training resource provides more information about how the technology-guided format works.
Frequently Asked Questions About CPR Verification Stations
What is a CPR Verification Station?
A CPR Verification Station is a technology-guided training setup used for applicable Self-Guided Skills Sessions. Participants perform hands-on CPR and resuscitation skills using training equipment while receiving audio, visual and performance feedback. Citywide CPR
Is a CPR Verification Station completely online?
No. Self-Guided Learning is not online-only. For applicable pathways, participants complete the required online learning and then attend a hands-on Self-Guided Skills Session where they physically perform the required skills. Citywide CPR
Is there an instructor standing beside me during the skills session?
A Self-Guided Skills Session is not structured like a traditional instructor-led classroom. The technology guides the participant through the session and provides feedback, while Citywide CPR support is available when assistance is needed.
Can I use a CPR Verification Station for BLS certification?
Yes, applicable BLS certification and renewal pathways can include a Self-Guided Skills Session at a CPR Verification Station. The correct pathway depends on whether you need the applicable online course as well as the hands-on skills component. Citywide CPR
Can ACLS and PALS skills also be completed through Self-Guided Learning?
Citywide CPR offers applicable BLS, ACLS and PALS Self-Guided Learning through CPR Verification Station™ learning centers. The specific course and skills requirements depend on the certification pathway. Citywide CPR
What if I already completed my HeartCode course?
If you have completed the applicable current AHA HeartCode online course and have the required completion documentation, the Skills Only pathway may be appropriate. Confirm that your HeartCode course corresponds to the certification you are registering for.
How do I find a Citywide CPR location?
Use the Citywide CPR Location Finder to search for available locations and determine which location and appointment fit your certification needs.
Ready to Schedule Your BLS, ACLS or PALS Skills Session?
If you know which AHA certification you need, the next step is to find a Citywide CPR location and select the appropriate training pathway.
FIND A LOCATION & SCHEDULE YOUR SESSION
Before booking, confirm whether you need Online + Skills or Skills Only and make sure the course matches the requirements of your employer, school, clinical program or organization.