Frequently Asked Questions

  • What's the difference between CPR and BLS certification?

    CPR certification covers lifesaving skills for the general public, including compressions, rescue breathing, and choking response for adults, children, and infants. BLS (Basic Life Support) is designed for healthcare providers and includes high-quality CPR, AED use, respiratory emergencies, and coordinated team-based response required in clinical settings. At IC&M CPR, we offer both tracks to match your professional or personal needs.

  • How long does a CPR certification class take?

    Most CPR classes take between two to four hours, depending on whether you're taking adult-only, child and infant modules, or adding First Aid. BLS courses for healthcare providers typically run three to four hours with hands-on practice and assessment. IC&M CPR offers flexible scheduling across New England to fit your availability.

  • When should healthcare providers renew their BLS certification?

    BLS certification for healthcare providers must be renewed every two years to remain valid and meet employer or licensing requirements. At IC&M CPR, we offer streamlined BLS renewal courses with instructor-led practice and immediate certification upon completion, serving hospitals, clinics, and dental offices throughout NH, MA, ME, RI, VT, and CT.

  • Can CPR training be done on-site for our workplace?

    Yes, on-site CPR and BLS training is fully available and often preferred by employers, schools, and healthcare facilities. Instructors bring equipment directly to your location across New England, adjusting scenarios and pacing to match your team's environment. At IC&M CPR, we customize sessions for corporate offices, childcare centers, medical facilities, and community groups.

  • What does AED training include?

    AED training teaches step-by-step device operation, pad placement, safety checks, and integration with CPR during sudden cardiac arrest. Students practice with realistic AED trainers to build confidence using the devices commonly found in schools, offices, and fitness centers. At IC&M CPR, AED training can be combined with CPR or delivered as a standalone workplace safety program.

  • Why do dental offices need BLS certification?

    Dental teams must be prepared to respond to medical emergencies such as cardiac events, respiratory distress, or allergic reactions that can occur during procedures. BLS certification ensures staff can deliver high-quality CPR, use an AED, and coordinate team-based response in fast-paced clinical environments. IC&M CPR provides American Red Cross-aligned BLS training tailored for dental practices across New England.

  • How does custom CPR training differ from regular classes?

    Custom CPR training is tailored to your organization's specific environment, schedule, and scenarios—whether it's a school, corporate office, or healthcare facility. Instructors adjust pace, emphasis, and simulations to match the types of emergencies your team is most likely to face. At IC&M CPR, custom sessions include flexible on-site delivery and immediate certification for groups across NH, MA, ME, RI, VT, and CT.

  • What's included in a First Aid and CPR combo course?

    A First Aid and CPR combo course covers wound care, bleeding control, burns, fractures, choking, and full CPR skills for adults, children, and infants. It's ideal for parents, teachers, coaches, and workplace safety teams who want comprehensive emergency readiness. At IC&M CPR, combo courses follow American Red Cross guidelines and provide hands-on practice with realistic training equipment.

  • Is Hands-Only CPR as effective as full CPR?

    Hands-Only CPR—continuous chest compressions without rescue breaths—is highly effective for adult cardiac arrest and recommended by the American Red Cross for untrained bystanders or those uncomfortable giving breaths. Full CPR with rescue breaths is still essential for infants, children, drowning victims, and healthcare providers. IC&M CPR teaches both methods based on your role and training goals.

  • What's the biggest mistake people make during CPR?

    The most common mistake is not pushing hard enough or fast enough during chest compressions. Effective CPR requires compressions at least two inches deep for adults, delivered at 100 to 120 beats per minute. At IC&M CPR, students practice with feedback equipment to build proper depth, rate, and recoil technique for real-world confidence.

  • Do CPR requirements vary across New England states?

    While CPR certification standards follow American Red Cross guidelines, specific workplace, school, and licensing requirements can vary by state and industry across NH, MA, ME, RI, VT, and CT. IC&M CPR stays familiar with regional compliance needs and tailors training to meet local regulations for healthcare facilities, childcare centers, and employers throughout New England.

  • How soon do I get my certification card after class?

    Cards are issued 3-5 business days after successful completion of ALL course requirements. For large companies, cards are issued after we (IC&M CPR, LLC) receive payment