CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) combined with an automated external defibrillator (AED) can double or even triple survival chances during cardiac arrest. These life-saving techniques can be learned by anyone in just a few hours — and can make the critical difference in the minutes before emergency services arrive.
Every year in Canada, over 60,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals, affecting thousands of lives. These emergencies can happen anywhere: at work, at home, or in a public space.
Our CPR and AED training is designed for all levels, from complete beginners to professionals looking to refresh their skills.
What if you had the right reflexes to help someone in a critical situation?
What is cardiac arrest and why is immediate action critical?
A cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood, cutting off oxygen to the brain.
Without intervention:
- Brain damage can occur within 4 to 6 minutes
- Survival chances decrease by 7 to 10% every minute
That’s why acting immediately is essential. The faster the response, the greater the chances of survival and recovery. Knowing basic first aid isn’t a luxury, it’s an essential skill, whether at work or in your personal life. Our workplace first aid training helps your team build these reflexes quickly.
What is CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)?
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency technique that combines chest compressions — and sometimes rescue breaths — to maintain blood and oxygen circulation throughout the body during cardiac arrest.
Basic steps to remember:
- Check for consciousness and breathing
- Call 911 immediately
- Begin chest compressions:
- 100 to 120 compressions per minute
- Without interruption
These simple actions can truly make the difference while waiting for emergency services. With the right training, CPR can be mastered quickly — giving you the confidence to act in any emergency situation. At Santinel, CPR is taught in our CPR and AED certification courses, accessible to all levels.
How does an AED work and how do you use one?
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a device that:
- Analyzes heart rhythm
- Delivers an electric shock if necessary
Its goal: restore a normal heart rhythm.
Easy to use, the AED guides the user step by step with clear voice instructions and visual signals, allowing anyone, even without prior training, to intervene quickly and effectively.
Why should AEDs be accessible everywhere?
80% of cardiac arrests happen at home.
This means:
- Businesses must equip and train their employees
- Public spaces must have a visible, accessible AED
- Individuals can also equip themselves to protect their loved ones
The more accessible a defibrillator is, the faster the intervention — and the higher the survival rate. Our partner Cardio Choc offers a full range of defibrillators and first aid equipment, delivered anywhere in Canada.
Are you ready to respond to a cardiac arrest?
In a cardiac arrest situation, you are the first link in the chain of survival. Emergency services take several minutes to arrive — and every minute without intervention reduces survival chances.
Getting trained means:
- Protecting your loved ones
- Making your workplace safer
- Being ready to act at any moment
Santinel offers CPR and AED training designed for all levels, whether you’re a beginner or looking to refresh your certification. Our courses give you the concrete tools to act quickly and effectively — to protect those around you.
Frequently Asked Questions about CPR and AEDs
Can you use an AED without training?
Yes. AEDs are designed for use by anyone, with built-in voice guidance that walks you through every step. No prior training is required to operate one effectively.
Is CPR alone enough to save someone?
CPR helps maintain circulation, but combining CPR with an AED can double or even triple survival chances. Using both together gives the best possible outcome.
How long is a first aid certification valid?
In general, first aid certifications are valid for 2 to 3 years, depending on the type of training. Regular refreshers are strongly recommended to keep your skills sharp and up to date.
Is first aid training mandatory for businesses in Quebec?
Yes. Quebec regulations require employers to ensure that trained first aiders are present in the workplace, in sufficient numbers based on company size and risk level. Getting certified means both protecting your team and meeting your legal obligations. Our workplace first aid training is specifically designed to meet these requirements.
