Every wonder what it’s like taking a first aid course? Are you a little bit nervous and questioning whether you’ll pass or whether the class will be tough? Ever wonder what the other students will be like? This page will hopefully put you at ease and help make sure you don’t lose any sleep while you wonder what your upcoming OH&S approved first aid course will be like. Get first hand knowledge from me, your writer, an experienced first aid instructor, instructor trainer and master instructor trainer with the Red Cross, Lifesaving Society and St Mark James Training. Let me put your mind at ease as to what to expect from your upcoming basic or intermediate first aid class.
What’s it Like Taking a First Aid Course?
Most participants enter the classroom incredibly nervous. The majority of participants also enter the classroom on time or early. You definitely don’t want to arrive late. Some instructors will not let any students attend if they show up a minute late. Most instructors are fairly patient and will allow students to enter the classroom up to 10 to 15 minutes. Regardless, don’t try your luck and show up late.
Because everyone arriving is fairly nervous and surrounded by strangers the instructor will usually outline the plan for the day, introduce themselves and throw out a little ice breaker so that everyone gets a chance to get to know one an another. This is important because you will be working in teams, partners and groups throughout the day. This isn’t the best environment for an introvert but neither is the world of first aid. You will need to be loud and take control of real world first aid emergencies.
What Happens During the First Aid and CPR Course?
Typically the instructor follows the outline and the course varies between lecture format, drills, demonstrations, scenarios and role play. If an instructor is fairly nervous or new expect more time on lectures. Most St Mark James Training instructors are well trained and are encouraged to make the classes more entertaining and fun by providing engaging courses with plenty of scenarios, practise and role play. I strongly believe that’s the best way to learn. You will have to take a test at the end and the instructor should be grading you on your skills.
Is It Difficult to Pass the Course?
No, as long as you show up, pay attention, have fun and don’t fall asleep you should have no difficulty completing the course. Most instructors are incredibly patient and really want you to pass the course. The course is also designed for the average person, not for doctors or lawyers so don’t stress that it’ll be some near impossible exam at the end. Enjoy the class, ask question and participate and you’ll be just fine.
What are the other Students Like in a First Aid Course?
Instructors usually see 6 different students
- Quiet and off to the corner: This student is usually incredibly nervous and doesn’t want to get involved much
- The prisoner: forced to come from work and sits in the back with his or her arms crossed disappointed that they have to attend.
- The keener: excited and usually sitting in the front and loves to tell stories and get involved a lot
- The average: happy to be there and learn. Simple smile and eager to learn.
- Hungover / Sleeper: for whatever reason didn’t sleep much the night before and is dozing off throughout the day. Might not pass if he or she sleeps too much!
Which one do you think you will be?
Did You Know?
Spinal injuries
Spinal injuries usually occur during accidents such as falls or vehicular crashes. They are very dangerous, especially if the spinal cord is damaged, because it controls all voluntary and involuntary movement of different muscle groups in the body. If spinal and neck injuries are suspected, remember these signs and symptoms:
- Changes in the level of consciousness
- Severe neck and/or back pain
- Weakness, numbness, and paralysis
- Loss of control of the limbs, bladder, and bowels
Spinal Injuries are one of the many topics covered in an intermediate first aid course with any OH&S approved provider. Learn the skills to save a life and prevent a spinal injury by taking a first aid class today.