Frequently Asked Questions

What is CPR?

‘Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a combination of rescue breathing and chest compressions delivered to victims thought to be in cardiac arrest. When cardiac arrest occurs, the heart stops pumping blood. CPR can support a small amount of blood flow to the heart and brain to “buy time” until normal heart function is restored. Cardiac arrest is often caused by an abnormal heart rhythm called ventricular fibrillation (VF). When VF develops, the heart quivers and doesn’t pump blood. The victim in VF cardiac arrest needs CPR and delivery of a shock to the heart, called defibrillation. Defibrillation eliminates the abnormal VF heart rhythm and allows the normal rhythm to resume. Defibrillation is not effective for all forms of cardiac arrest but it is effective to treat VF, the most common cause of sudden cardiac arrest. Source: Americanheart.org’

What is an AED?

‘The Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a computerized medical device. An AED can check a person’s heart rhythm. It can recognize a rhythm that requires a shock. And it can advise the rescuer when a shock is needed. The AED uses voice prompts, lights and text messages to tell the rescuer the steps to take.’

How are CPR Mannequins and other equipment kept clean?

At In A Heartbeat we own and maintain all of our equipment. We do not rent our CPR mannequins from or to another organization, and after each class mannequins are sanitized with antibacterial wipes. Additionally, students use barrier devices such as disposable keychain masks and pocket masks with disposable valves.

How do I order an AED or dental medication kit?

To purchase AEDs, Medical Emergency Kits, CLAM Medications trays and more, please visit our friends at Core Medical Systems. Check out their website or call / email Jon Bloomberg at info@corecpr.com / (347) 995-4461

As a dental office in Massachusetts, where can we locate the current requirements?

Visit www.massdental.org/boridreg.aspx

Where does In A Heartbeat teach classes?

In A Heartbeat is based in Central MA and operates throughout Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. Our training center is located just outside Worcester, MA, in the town of Holden.