first aid AND PRE-HOSPITAL EMERGENCY CARE

first aid AND PRE-HOSPITAL EMERGENCY CARE

Course overview

The Cardiac First Response – Advanced (CFR-A) course is a PHECC-certified emergency response programme delivered in partnership with UFAS, designed for individuals who may be the first on the scene at a cardiac arrest or medical emergency.

This one-day course equips participants with the advanced life-saving skills required to respond to cardiac arrest, choking, heart attack and stroke, using CPR and AED techniques aligned with current PHECC Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs).

Training is delivered by Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council-approved instructors and is available in Dublin and Cork, with nationwide in-house CFR-A training for workplaces, community groups, sports clubs and organisations across Ireland.

Who this course is for

The CFR-A course is suitable for trained responders and professionals, including:

  • Paramedics, nurses, doctors and healthcare assistants
  • Fire service personnel and Gardaí
  • Workplace first aiders and designated first responders
  • Event medics, security staff and stewards
  • Sports coaches and community volunteers
  • Anyone required to hold a PHECC CFR-A certificate

This course is suitable for initial certification, renewal or upskilling, and supports workplace, professional and organisational compliance.

Outstanding medical expertise, delivered in a clear and engaging way

The knowledge of the medical world is simply outstanding and breathtaking, but I was most impressed with the way they taught the class. It was a breath of fresh air. Anyone can read off PowerPoint, but First Aid Coaching used their own technique which was far more interesting and easier to take in. I can highly recommend First Aid Coaching.

John Dorgan

A first aid course that redefines learning

Our memory favours fun and stimulating experiences. If someone were to sit down and try to design a perfect first aid course, they would fall short of the delivery through Real First Aid. I have been on a few first aid courses — this not only changed my perception of what first aid is about, but altered my understanding of how to teach effectively.

Mary Power

A breath of fresh air in training

Having done one before that was up for renewal (with a different provider), I hadn’t expected to learn much new. How wrong was I. The thoroughly in-depth knowledge combined with creative delivery meant the course was a breath of fresh air, and although the topics were familiar, it felt completely new. What really stood out was that they welcomed questions specific to our individual working environments, which I have found invaluable and definitely made me a better leader.

Adam Collins

First aid training that finally sticks

I have attended several first aid courses over the years and, like most people, I find it increasingly difficult to stay awake, let alone take in the important information. This course was great. It kept you on the edge of your seat and wide awake. I truly believe that I have learnt first aid for the first time.

Niall Horgan

Calm, reassuring support when it mattered

I am so thankful for attending the course today. I was very anxious with all that had happened during the week, and I have to say Danny made me feel very comfortable, as I am sure he did the other girls in attendance. Thank you so much, and I look forward to attending another course with you in the near future. I would highly recommend First Aid Coaching.

First Aider, Cork

Engaging, practical and thoroughly enjoyed

I just wanted to sincerely thank both instructors, Karen and Mark, on a fantastic day. The girls thoroughly enjoyed the first aid course, and that is down to both Mark and Karen for making it so engaging and practical.

Kate, St Angela's

A great pace and a supportive atmosphere

Excellent pace of session, with lots of opportunity to practice, relevant feedback and a very supportive atmosphere.

Helena, HSE Staff BLS Candidate

The best in the country

PJ was brilliant last night — the three of us enjoyed it and learned from it! You were right, PJ is the best in the country!

Karina, Cork

What you will learn

Participants receive hands-on, practical training in:

  • Adult, child and infant CPR
  • Safe and effective AED use
  • Recognition and management of cardiac arrest
  • Heart attack and stroke recognition
  • Choking and airway obstruction management
  • Infection prevention and use of PPE
  • Scene safety and casualty assessment
  • Effective communication with Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
  • Patient handover to advanced care providers
  • Application of current PHECC CFR-A Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs)

Training is scenario-based, practical and assessment-focused.

 

Who delivers this course

All CFR-A courses are delivered by PHECC-registered instructors who are current healthcare professionals with real-world emergency response experience.

Training focuses on practical decision-making, realistic scenarios and confident performance in high-pressure situations.

Why choose First Aid Coaching

  • PHECC-approved CFR-A training provider
  • Delivered by experienced healthcare professionals
  • Strong focus on real-world emergency response
  • Small group sizes and supportive learning environment
  • Public and in-house courses available nationwide
  • Trusted by organisations, emergency services and community groups across Ireland

Certification and standards

On successful completion of the program, participants are awarded the Cardiac First Response – Advanced (CFR-A) certificate, which is PHECC recognised and accepted nationwide. The certification remains valid for two years and is designed to meet compliance requirements across workplace, professional, and community settings.

Certification and standards

On successful completion of the program, participants are awarded the Cardiac First Response – Advanced (CFR-A) certificate, which is PHECC recognised and accepted nationwide. The certification remains valid for two years and is designed to meet compliance requirements across workplace, professional, and community settings.