How Long Is First Aid Valid For?
Have you ever wondered if your first aid knowledge is still relevant and up-to-date? Whether you’re a seasoned first aider or simply curious about the shelf life of your training, this blog post will answer one of the most common questions in emergency response: how long is first aid valid for?
From CPR to wound care, we’ll explore the factors that affect proficiency, review industry guidelines and provide practical tips for staying prepared. So let’s dive in and demystify this critical aspect of first aid education!
What is first aid?
First aid is the medical help given to a person who has been injured or who is suddenly ill. It is also known as emergency care.
When does first aid expire?
“When does first aid expire?” is a question that many people ask. The answer may surprise you. First aid certification does expire and it is important to keep your skills and knowledge up-to-date. We recommends taking a first aid refresher course every three years.
How often should you renew your first aid certification?
It is important to keep your first aid certification current, as the skills and knowledge learned during training can degrade over time. We recommend that you renew your certification every on to three years, or when guidelines change.
Online vs. in-person first aid courses
There are pros and cons to taking first aid courses online versus in person.
Online courses may be more convenient and less expensive, but you may not get the same quality of instruction. In-person courses provide hands-on learning opportunities and personal interaction with instructors, but they can be more expensive and time-consuming. Ultimately, the best option for you depends on your learning style and needs.
What is the difference between HLTAID003 and HLTAID011?
HLTAID011 provides the skills and knowledge required to provide first aid in a range of situations, including those that may require immediate life support. This course replaces HLTAID003.
HLTAID012 provides the skills and knowledge required to provide an emergency first aid response in an education and care setting. This course covers the provision of first aid to infants, children and adults.
How do I get a first aid certificate in Australia?
In order to get a first aid certificate in Australia, you will need to complete a first aid course that is accredited by a reputable first aid provider. Once you have completed the course, you will be issued with a certificate that is valid for three years.
How do I get my first aid certificate NSW?
In order to obtain a first aid certificate in NSW, you must successfully complete a nationally recognised accredited first aid course. Once you have completed the course, you will be issued with a certificate that is valid for three years.
How long is HLTAID011 valid for?
HLTAID011 is valid for 3 years from the date of completion.
Is HLTAID004 equivalent to HLTAID012?
HLTAID012 provides the skills and knowledge required to provide an emergency first aid response in a range of situations, specifically schools and childcare settings. This course covers CPR, managing wounds and bleeds, and dealing with common first aid emergencies such as burns, snake bites, heart attacks, head injuries, spinal injuries, and broken bones.
HLTAID012 has taken over from HLTAID004. The HLTAID004 has now been discontinued.
How much does a first aid course cost Australia?
In Australia, a first aid course typically costs between $65 for the CPR course and from $120 to $200 for the more advanced first aid courses. The length of the course depends on the provider.
Can a first aid course be completed in an hour?
While parts of a first aid course can be completed in just an hour, it is not typically the case. A first aid course typically takes around 3-12 hours to complete and includes classroom learning as well as online learning and practical training. You may see people advertising an hour-long first aid or CPR course. This means there will be some online pre-learning and then the following assessment can be as short as 30 mins to 1-2 hours.
Can you do first aid online NSW?
The State of NSW offers many hybrid online/in-person courses that allow you to complete the majority of the coursework online, but receive hands-on training in a live environment. This type of course is perfect for people who can’t or don’t want to attend a full 8-hour face-to-face first aid course.
After you complete a first aid course online with an accredited provider, you will receive a three-year certificate. A new first aid course that is accredited can be taken to renew your certificate.
Are there age restrictions when taking first aid courses?
There are no age restrictions when taking first aid courses. However, some organisations may have specific requirements for certification, such as being at least 14 years old. If a person is between 14-18 years old, they need written consent from a legal guardian to complete the course. On the other end of the spectrum, there is no maximum age, however, people need to be able to kneel down on the floor and administer 2 minutes of CPR non-stop.
Are your First Aid and CPR courses the same as St John’s and the Red Cross?
Yes, they are. There are a number of different First Aid and CPR courses available, each with its own expiration date. All accredited first aid providers offer the same course, there is no difference, At The First Aid Nest, all of our educators are registered nurses or have experience in the medical field.
How do I actually receive my certificate?
Once you have completed a first aid course, you will receive a certificate of completion. This certificate is valid for three years from the date of the course. When your online theory has been completed and the assessor has signed off your face-to-face assessments, your certificate will automatically be emailed to you.
Sometimes it may come on the same day, but if there is a delay, check you have completed your online learning, even if this is after your face-to-face assessment. Once this is all checked off, your certificate will automatically be generated.
No definitive answer exists as to how long first aid certification is valid for, as it can depend on a number of factors such as the type of certification, the issuing organisation, and the country in which you reside. However, it is generally recommended that you renew your certification every three years to ensure that your skills remain up-to-date.
Learn More About First Aid Courses in Sydney
Want more? We’ve got you covered…
Our Baby First Aid Courses
Our baby first aid courses are available in person in your home and online. We run classes in your home with groups of 2, 4 or up to 10 in Sydney & Melbourne and you can book in 3 easy steps!
- Pick your class
- Follow the prompts to purchase
- We will contact you within 24 hours to lock in your date of choice
Our First Aid Certificate Courses
We run most of the popular first aid courses Australia wide. HLTAID011 Provide First Aid, HLTAID009 Provide CPR, HLTAID012 Provide First Aid in an Education & Care Setting, RAMOAP (anaphylaxis), Mental Health first aid and CPR/LVR to name a few.
Book your public spot online or contact us if you have a group of 5+ people for onsite training.
Here are some other resources you may enjoy!
FREE GUIDE: Your Virtual Baby First Aid Kit
FREE GUIDE: Introducing Common Allergy Foods & Allergic Reactions
FREE Workplace Emergency Preparedness Plan: Grab this at the bottom of every page!
Follow for baby & child first aid and allergy info and tips on Instagram & TikTok, all @thenestcpr
