In order to do their jobs properly, it is vital that rescuers understand how to perform CPR. If you want to have the skills to rescue someone should the need arise, it is strongly recommended that you take a test to become CPR certified to ensure you know what you are doing.
Traditionally, written CPR tests take place in an in-person setting. While some certification programs still do this, it is now easier, less stressful, and more time-efficient to take a CPR test online.
If the prospect of taking a CPR test online makes you nervous, don’t worry! The test is just to make sure that you know what to do in an emergency situation. If you master some simple learning techniques, the CPR test will be easy.
Keys to Learning: How to Prepare for the CPR Test Online
Taking a CPR test online is no different from taking any other test. The same principles you used to pass your high school algebra exam will work just as well when studying for the CPR test.
If taking exams has never been your strong suit, that’s okay. While you should try to learn the material well enough to get 100%, for most certifications, 80% is enough to pass, so don’t sweat it. Here are some basic test prep principles that will ensure you pass the test:
- Don’t cram. Doing three one-hour study sessions is much better than a single three-hour cramming session on test day.
- Get plenty of sleep the night before the test. Studies have shown that sleep has amazing memory-boosting properties. Most people need 7-9 hours of sleep a night to function at their best.
- Use mnemonic devices. A mnemonic device is any technique or method that helps you retrieve information. Acronyms, acrostics, rhymes, and songs can all be used as mnemonic devices. You can find some good examples of CPR mnemonics here, or if you’re feeling creative, you can invent your own.
- Make sure you eat before the test. Like every other part of your body, your brain needs energy to perform at its best.
- Use the process of elimination. For multiple choice questions, you may not be sure which answer is right. When this is the case, the first thing you should do is eliminate answers that must be incorrect. You can often figure out the correct answer by the process of elimination.
- Read each question carefully. If you’re skimming, you might miss a word or detail that entirely changes the meaning of the test question.
- Check your answers. Try to finish the test with enough time to go back and check your answers. There might be something that you missed, or you may have marked the wrong answer by mistake.
- Relax! Stress has a negative effect on learning and memory. If you’re super wound up about the test, try some meditation or breathing techniques to help you feel calm and confident.
CPR Cheat Sheet: How to Learn CPR
At ProTrainings, we understand that each student has their own unique way of learning. That’s why we provide online materials in written, video, and audio formats. This allows the student to pick which learning modality works best for them.
Additionally, you can rewind, pause, and review our learning materials at any time. This allows students to learn at their own pace. Our priority is making sure rescuers are as prepared for emergency situations as possible, so we make sure all of our materials are accessible and clear.
We’ve even put together the perfect CPR cheat sheet that has everything you need to know. Sign up here today with your name and email to get your CPR cheat sheet, along with other great CPR-related content and learning materials!