First aiders have a responsibility to keep their skills and knowledge up-to-date. There are a number of online courses that you can use for your Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Some of these go beyond the ‘expected’ knowledge of a first aider, however, they may useful for members of the voluntary sector (who may be looking to progress to ambulance level) or those who are interested.

CardiAcademy

CardiAcademy is a training package from Cardiac Science, a manufacturer of defibrillators. They have quite a neat course on the heart which provides a good introduction and explains the concept of defibrillation. The course is free, you just need to fill out your details. They also have a course on how to use one of their defibrillators (Powerheart AED G3).

Entonox – Discover Pain Management

 BOC, who supply & manufacture Entonox have produced an online free e-learning package for those who want to learn the basics about entonox and pain management. Entonox (known colloquially as “gas and air”) is a painkilling gas comprised of 50% Oxygen and 50% Nitrous Oxide. Entonox is used widely by the voluntary sector and private companies (as well as state ambulance services) as it is safe and easy to use. This course goes into the detail behind how Entonox works, and its clinical applications and contra-indications.

Once again, you need to register and provide your details (prepare for the promotional e-mails!). The course itself is quite long, don’t expect to sit down and complete it in 15 minutes! However overall this is an excellent resource for those interested in the background science. BOC also have a range of other free online modules such as the principles of ‘oxygen therapy’ which is worth taking a look at.

clicktosave

clicktosave is a free online “crash course” in first aid produced by St John Ambulance Australia. The course is aimed at people who haven’t done first aid before, it focusses on your role as a first aider and essential lifesaving skills (helping an unconscious person, dealing with major bleeding). However this is a useful resource for any first aider who feels that they need their basic skills refreshing.

Anatomy and Physiology resources

You can find a listing of useful anatomy resources on our Anatomy & Physiology page. This is a growing area of first aid for free, with a brand new course in the pipeline – watch this space!

Don’t forget to test yourself using our free first aid quizzes!