Starting in 2009, Ramapo College implemented a CPR program as a required course for nursing students. Within the past few years, the administration opened the class up to anyone who wants to get CPR certified, including registered and non-matriculated students.
Students are becoming more aware of the program due to a rise in interest to learn and become certified in CPR in case of a sudden emergency. It is a light course that lasts only one day and runs for approximately four hours. It will be available on Tuesday, April 16 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. If the weekend is more convenient, a course is also offered on Saturday, April 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 12: 30 p.m. and from 6-9 p.m.
An instructor leads the course and participants are taught critical skills on how to respond before emergency medical services get to the scene.
"We started doing [the course] for the nursing students for two years before they go on and graduate and then we realized we could offer a regular one for anyone who wants to get certified," said Joana Gonzalez, Office Manager at The Ramapo College of New Jersey Center for Innovative and Professional Learning. "Anyone can take this course, there's no requirement. More recently, we've seen an increase in enrollment."
There are two separate programs offered. The CPR course for basic life support is geared toward the nursing students, and The American Heart Association Heart Saver is open to the public.
AED, External Automatic Defibrillator, is also included in the one-day CPR certificate. Most recent studies from The American Heart Association have found that when high-quality CPR includes the use of AED, there is a greater chance of survival from a sudden cardiac arrest.
"I think it's great that the school offers a CPR course to get certified. It's only one day out of your life for four hours and after that you'll know CPR forever, with practice of course, and you never know when you need it," said senior Rachel Day.
Learning CPR is not the only beneficial aspect of the course. Prospective students will also be educated on how to use AED, advanced technology that is becoming more available in the workplace and public settings.
"I've seen it become more of a trend for young people taking these CPR classes to get certified," said senior Gira Patel. "People just want to become informed. In everyday life, it's a great skill to know if you're a hired babysitter or a parent. Accidents happen and you could save a life."
Preregistration is required on the Ramapo College website. The fee is $125 plus $12 for the required text that is mailed and must be reviewed prior to the first day of class. For more information on the workshop, you can visit www.ramapo.edu/cipl/workshops/cpr.html or call the Ramapo College Center for Innovative and Professional Learning at (201) 684-7370.
"This is a really great option for students. Medical professionals are not the only ones that need to know these skills, it's important for everyone. Since it's offered at Ramapo and you don't have to go off campus to take it I think that gives students more motivation to want to do it and learn," said senior Paige Nicoletti.
