When someone suffers a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), every second counts. In those critical early minutes, understanding the difference between CPR and defibrillation can mean the difference between life and death. Although they work together in a rescue situation, they serve very different purposes. In this article, we’ll explain what each one does and why both are vital in an emergency.

What Is CPR?

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a manual technique that helps to pump blood around the body when the heart stops beating. CPR keeps oxygen flowing to the brain and vital organs, buying precious time until professional help or a defibrillator arrives.

It involves two main actions:

• Chest compressions – pushing down hard and fast in the centre of the chest (at least 100-120 times per minute)
• Rescue breaths (optional for trained individuals) – giving breaths mouth-to-mouth to supply oxygen

CPR alone cannot restart a heart that’s in a fatal rhythm like ventricular fibrillation – that’s where defibrillation comes in.

What Does a Defibrillator Do?

A defibrillator, or AED (Automated External Defibrillator), delivers an electric shock to the heart. The aim is to restore a normal rhythm in the event of a cardiac arrest. Most public AEDs are fully automated and easy to use, giving verbal instructions as soon as the device is activated.

Here’s what an AED does:

• Analyses the casualty’s heart rhythm
• Advises whether a shock is needed
• Charges and delivers the shock automatically or on button press

Defibrillation is the only treatment that can restore a shockable heart rhythm. CPR cannot do this on its own – it only sustains life temporarily.

CPR vs AED – What’s the Difference?

Both CPR and defibrillation are needed for the best chance of survival.

When Should You Use an AED?

You should use a defibrillator as soon as you suspect someone is in cardiac arrest:

• The person is unresponsive
• They are not breathing normally (or not at all)

Once 999 has been called, send someone to fetch the nearest AED while CPR is being carried out. The earlier a shock is delivered, the greater the chance of survival – ideally within the first 3–5 minutes.

CPR and AED Training Saves Lives

Every year in the UK, over 30,000 people suffer a cardiac arrest outside of hospital. Immediate CPR and defibrillation can double or even triple survival rates.

At ProTrainings Europe Ltd, we provide CPR and AED training for individuals, businesses, and organisations across the UK. Our AED training course teaches how to safely and confidently use a defibrillator in line with Resuscitation Council UK guidelines.

View AED Course

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between CPR and defibrillation can empower you to take life-saving action when it matters most. While CPR keeps the body alive, only an AED can reset the heart during a shockable arrest. That’s why every workplace, school, and public building should have an accessible defibrillator and trained staff.

Be ready to act – book your CPR and AED training today.

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Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of your staff is not just a moral responsibility—it’s a legal requirement. A first aid needs assessment is a vital step for any business to comply with the HSE first aid regulations and to make sure the right provisions are in place in the event of a medical emergency.

What Is a First Aid Needs Assessment?

A first aid needs assessment is a review carried out by an employer to determine what first aid arrangements are necessary in their workplace. This includes identifying potential hazards, the nature of the work, the size of the workforce, shift patterns, and previous incidents.

It ensures that your first aid training and equipment are suitable for your specific working environment, helping you stay compliant with workplace first aid regulations.

Is It a Legal Requirement?

Yes. Under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981, all UK employers must provide adequate and appropriate equipment, facilities, and personnel for first aid. The law does not dictate exact numbers of first aiders or specific equipment—it leaves that to the outcome of your assessment.

What Should Be Considered in Your First Aid Risk Assessment?

• Number of employees and visitors on site
• Types of activities undertaken (office work, manual labour, lone working, etc.)
• Workplace layout and location (remote or urban)
• Past medical incidents or near misses
• Availability of emergency services
• Shifts, night work, or irregular hours

Based on your findings, you can determine the right level of first aid training, number of trained staff, and appropriate first aid kits needed.

How Often Should You Review It?

Your first aid needs assessment should be reviewed:

• Annually as a minimum
• After any significant changes to staff, work activities, or location
• Following a medical emergency or health and safety incident

Failing to keep your assessment up to date could mean your provision no longer meets your legal duties, putting your staff at risk and leaving your business vulnerable to penalties.

How ProTrainings Can Help

At ProTrainings Europe Ltd, we offer comprehensive guidance and first aid training to help your business meet its HSE first aid compliance. Our video online, blended, and classroom training options are tailored to suit your workplace needs.

We also provide support in carrying out first aid needs assessments and ensuring your workplace is fully prepared in the event of an emergency.

Free First Aid Needs Assessment Template

Need help getting started? Download our free First Aid Needs Assessment Template to complete your risk review with ease.

Download Template

Final Thoughts

Whether you run a small office or a large industrial site, a well-executed first aid needs assessment is the first step in protecting your workforce and staying legally compliant.

Don’t wait for an emergency to expose the gaps in your planning. Make sure your team has the right training, tools, and confidence to act when it matters most.

Need advice or training? Contact our team today.

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Why Become a Certified First Aider?

Being a certified first aider means you have the skills and confidence to respond to emergencies, whether at work, home or in public. Employers often require certified first aiders to meet health and safety regulations, and having this certification can also enhance your employability and contribute to a safer environment.

Steps to Becoming a Certified First Aider

1. Understand the Role of a First Aider

• A first aider is responsible for providing immediate care to someone who has been injured or is suddenly ill until professional medical help can be provided.
• This role includes assessing situations, performing CPR, treating wounds, and managing other emergency conditions.

2. Choose the Right First Aid Course

• The first step is selecting a first aid course that suits your needs. In the UK, courses are typically regulated by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or other recognised bodies.
• The most common courses include:
  • Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW): A one-day course suitable for low-risk environments.
  • First Aid at Work (FAW): A more comprehensive three-day course that covers a broader range of first aid scenarios.
  • Paediatric First Aid: A course focused on paediatric first aid for infants and children, required in childcare settings.

3. Find an Accredited Training Provider

• It’s important to choose a training provider that is accredited by a recognised organisation, like us at ProTrainings Europe.
• Accredited providers ensure that the training meets UK standards and that your certification will be recognised by employers and regulatory bodies.

4. Complete the Training

• Attend the selected course and complete all required modules. Courses typically include both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
• You’ll learn essential first aid techniques such as CPR, treating burns, managing fractures, and handling choking incidents.
• Practical assessments are often conducted to ensure you can apply the skills learned in real-life scenarios.

5. Pass the Assessment

• Most first aid courses require you to pass a written and practical assessment to demonstrate your competence.
• The assessment will cover various first aid scenarios, testing your ability to respond effectively and use the techniques you’ve been taught.
• Upon successful completion, you will receive your certification, which is usually valid for three years.

6. Maintain Your Certification

• First aid certifications in the UK are generally valid for three years. To remain certified, you’ll need to complete a refresher course before your certification expires.
• It’s recommended to take annual refresher courses to keep your skills sharp and stay updated on any changes in first aid practices.

7. Consider Additional Training

• Depending on your workplace or personal interests, you may want to pursue additional training in specific areas such as mental health first aid, advanced first aid, or first responder courses.
• These courses can further enhance your ability to provide care in specialised situations.

Benefits of Being a Certified First Aider

• Workplace Compliance: Many employers in the UK are required by law to have a certain number of certified first aiders on site, particularly in high-risk environments.
• Increased Confidence: With certification, you’ll have the confidence to act quickly and effectively in emergencies, potentially saving lives.
• Personal Development: First aid certification is a valuable addition to your skill set, improving your personal and professional development.

Conclusion

Becoming a certified first aider in the UK is a rewarding process that equips you with the skills to handle emergencies confidently. By following these steps and choosing the right course, you can become a vital resource in your workplace, community, or family. Don’t wait until an emergency happens—get certified and be prepared to make a difference.

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• The FAW can now be combined with the 2 day Paediatric First Aid qualifications
• The FAW requalification can now be combined with the 2 day Paediatric First Aid qualifications
• The 2-day Paediatric First Aid can be combined with the EFAW
• The Blended Paediatric First Aid can be combined with the EFAW

Having the paediatric qualification and a workplace qualification meets the childcare needs and the HSE requirements in the workplace.  All our approved instructors are able to offer these combined courses.

It previously took 3-5 days to teach these courses and most of the content was duplicated.  Now, by choosing a combined course and adding a little time to each day, both qualifications can be taught in less time.  This gives learners the option to gain two qualifications easily and for a lower course cost and less time away from work.

If you have any questions on this qualification, please contact support@protrainings.uk or call us on 01206 805359 and we will do our very best to answer any queries you may have.

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We are updating the manual shortly to include  translated graphics.  The next manuals to be translated are into Russian and Spanish and these should be available in the next couple of weeks.

For more information please contact ProTrainings support on 01206 805359, chat online form any website or email support@protraining.eu.  To see the courses we offer, visit www.protrainings.uk/courses

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For more information see the HSE notice.

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AED units on aircraft are becoming more widespread and the UK Resus Council on their website have added some useful information and they have added a video from the BBC where AED’s are discussed. Airline staff are trained in basic first aid and they have been carrying first aid kits since 2004 but the introduction of AED units has been slower for European carriers.

Some airlines started caring AED units on long haul flights but now more an more airlines are carrying AED units on all flights.  

One the UK Resus Council website they state that “The exact number of cardiac arrests and sudden cardiac deaths that occur each year during flights on commercial passenger aircraft is unknown, due to the absence of mandatory reporting. It has been estimated that 1 000 people die during commercial flights each year. In-flight medical emergencies during air travel have become more frequent, due to larger numbers of passengers and more frequent travel by older people and people with chronic illness. Medical emergencies have been reported to occur with a frequency of 1 per 10–40 000 passengers.

When cardiac arrest occurs, any delay in starting resuscitation and in using a defibrillator to deliver a shock when needed will reduce the person’s chance of survival. Although in-flight cardiac arrest is relatively rare, survival from cardiac arrest when there is no defibrillator on board is extremely unlikely, due to the time that it takes to divert and land the aircraft to obtain the treatment needed.

There have been several reports (series and individual case reports) of successful resuscitation of passengers during air travel as a result of prompt recognition of cardiac arrest by trained flight attendants, prompt delivery of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and prompt use of an on-board automated external defibrillator (AED). Success rates of up to 55% have been reported in people who received prompt CPR and AED use for cardiac arrest due to a ‘shockable rhythm’ (a chaotic heart rhythm that is treatable with a defibrillator).  An AED will only save a life when the cardiac arrest is due to a shockable rhythm. These rhythms have been present in up to one third of cardiac arrests reported in aircraft passengers. Survival from an in-flight cardiac arrest that is not due to a shockable rhythm is extremely unlikely.

Even if the cardiac arrest rhythm is not shockable, attaching an AED to a person in cardiac arrest may help to guide the further action of those attempting resuscitation.”

For more information and to read the full story please click here and for more information on online and face to face training on AED units and first aid visit www.proaed.co.uk or www.protrainings.uk.  You can also call ProTrainings Europe Ltd on 01206 805359.

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Disability Awareness is a very important subject but until now understanding it has not been easy to learn. We have teamed up with Enhance the UK, a disability charity to develop this educational course to improve disability awareness. Fifty percent of all proceeds from course sales go direct to Enhance the UK to further support their excellent work in promoting and training disability awareness. 

The course challenges the attitudes, perceptions and expectations of both disabled people and society as a whole in relation to disability. The course is user led, being presented by people with disabilities.

With this training, we aim to remove the embarrassment of social interaction when working with disabled people by teaching you simple hints and tips in a fun interactive online training.

The training covers all areas of disability:

• Deaf awareness
• Visual impairments
• Physical impairments
• British Sign Language – BSL
• All round disability awareness
• Disability and Communication training
• The equality act

The course is a series of short videos followed by knowledge review questions between the videos and a short multiple choice test at the end. When you complete the course you can download and print your completion certificate, evidenced based learning statement and Certified CPD certificate.  There is also a download area and you can have access to the course for 8 months even after you have passed the course making it a useful resource of information.

As the course is taught by people with disabilities, the information given is accurate and you will learn about the problems and solutions of the disabled.  You will also lean about communicating with the disabled and how you can help them in the workplace and community. If you would like a face to face lesson at your workplace, contact us and Enhance the UK can provide this for you.

For more information and to buy the course visit www.prodisabilityawareness.co.uk or call ProTrainings on 01206 805359.

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Blended training means you can reduce the time training has to be completed in the classroom by completing part of your training online using our full feature video online training.  Blended training is nothing new to ProTrainings, we have been delivering it for many years.   We already have blended Basic Life Support, AED and our popular Paediatric First Aid courses.  Our video based training is more engaging that PowerPoint based training courses.  ProTrainings trade body qualification or a regulated qualification are available.

Visit our website at www.profaw.co.uk where you will find more information and where you can sign up for the course.  Watch a series of short videos, answer knowledge review questions and complete the test.  All courses include a student resources section to download the free student manual and many other downloads and links. On completion of the online part you can instantly download and print your completion certificate.  Because free downloadable evidenced based learning statement and Certified CPD statement are included, therefore ProTrainings course are comprehensive.

We have also added subtitle to some of the videos using the CC option and all videos will be available with subtitles soon.

Part two of the course

The part two of the course is where you complete the practical part of your course.  Half day for an EFAW, two days for a First Aid at Work and one day for the First Aid at Work re-qualification.  When you complete part two, you will receive your ProTrainings certificate in the post from your instructor.  We have hundreds of approved and monitored instructors nationally who can deliver part two of the course locally or at your workplace.

Other Versions

We also offer the Appointed persons course which can be completed 100% online and the HSE recommended First Aid at Work annual refresher which again can be completed 100% online.  Our blended first aid at work training is available to individuals, companies and instructors to offer to their students.  For more information please email support@protrainings.uk or call ProTrainings on 01206 805359.

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CPR on its own extends the chance of survival of the patient before the medical professionals arrive and calling them as soon as possible is essential. CPR alone will not bring them back to life, an AED unit is required. For every minute delay in an AED arriving, the patients chance of survival decreases by 10%. The emergency medical services will bring an AED, but if you have one to hand, you can use it and hopefully bring them back to life sooner.

AED units are very easy to use by anyone as they talk you though the whole process and the never allow a shock to be delivered when its not needed or by accident. An AED unit is a battery powered, self contained piece of equipment that are becoming very popular and can be found in business, railway stations, airports, shopping or sports centres and many other places. One barrier for businesses and organisations in getting an AED is the cost. Most AED units on the market now, cost between £900 and £1500 and this is too expensive to justify.

AED’s do not have to cost this much, ProTrainings have a brand new full feature live AED units with full accessory kit (scissors, gloves, shaver), carry case and a 5 year warranty for £795+VAT including two free of charge video based AED E-Learning courses worth £50.00 + VAT. ProTrainings can also offer discounted training packages as video online or face to face training nationally at your workplace.

For more information or a quotation for multiple units, please contact aed@protrainings.uk or 01206 805359 or visit our online first aid website

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