About the Cardiac First Response Course
Achieving the PHECC Cardiac First Response (CFR) certification is an excellent way to gain a nationally recognised lifesaving qualification while developing essential skills in CPR, AED use, and emergency response. This course builds confidence, awareness, and the ability to act quickly and effectively during cardiac emergencies. It is ideal for anyone who wants practical lifesaving knowledge, whether for personal development, workplace safety, community responder roles, or as a foundation for further first aid training.
đź“Ť Courses Available
PHECC Cardiac First Response courses are delivered in Dublin and across Ireland, combining clear theory instruction with hands-on practical training in CPR techniques, AED operation, and real-life emergency scenarios. The programme is suitable for beginners, workplace staff, fitness professionals, teachers, coaches, and community members who want a respected qualification that enables them to provide immediate assistance in a cardiac emergency.
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Dublin & Nationwide Ireland
What is the PHECC Cardiac First Response Course??
The PHECC Cardiac First Response (CFR) course is designed for individuals who may need to respond to a cardiac emergency by providing immediate lifesaving care, including CPR and AED use, until emergency medical services arrive. It equips participants with the knowledge and practical skills required to recognise cardiac arrest, activate emergency services, and deliver effective early interventions that can significantly increase survival chances.
It is not intended to replace more advanced medical or first aid qualifications, such as PHECC First Aid Response (FAR) or Emergency Medical Technician training. Those programmes include more comprehensive assessment, treatment, and patient care skills for individuals responsible for providing a wider level of pre-hospital care.
For workplaces, organisations, or roles that require a broader scope of first aid capability, a higher-level PHECC course such as FAR may be recommended, while CFR remains the ideal entry-level qualification for cardiac emergency response and AED use.
Who Can Complete PHECC Cardiac First Response (CFR) Training?
The PHECC Cardiac First Response course is suitable for anyone who may need to respond to a cardiac emergency in the workplace or community setting.
This includes, for example:
- Reception staff
- Spa and leisure staff
- Gym instructors and fitness professionals
- Teachers and coaches
- Office staff
- Retail staff
- Duty managers and supervisors
- Community group leaders
- Volunteers
No previous first aid experience is required, making it ideal for beginners as well as those refreshing their lifesaving skills.
Pre-Requisites
To enrol on the PHECC Cardiac First Response course, participants must:
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Be physically able to perform CPR on the floor
- Have a basic understanding of spoken and written English
There are no swimming or prior qualification requirements.
What Does The Course Involve?
ThThe PHECC Cardiac First Response course is typically delivered over one day (4 hours) and combines theory with hands-on practical training to ensure participants can respond confidently in a real emergency.
Topics covered include:
Recognition of Cardiac Arrest
- Identifying signs of an unresponsive casualty
- Assessing breathing
- Activating emergency services
CPR Skills
- Adult CPR
- Child CPR
- Infant CPR
Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
- Safe and effective use of an AED
- Pad placement and safety considerations
- Following voice prompts correctly
Choking Management
- Treatment of foreign body airway obstruction in adults, children, and infants
Assessment is continuous throughout the course and includes practical skills evaluation in line with PHECC standards.
Upon successful completion, participants receive a PHECC Cardiac First Response certificate, which is valid for two years.
Course Cost / Bookings
Course Cost / Bookings
To enquire about the course cost and how to book, please email us at info@swim21training.com. Delivery of our courses can be a combination of online / in person. We can bring a trainer to you and deliver our courses at your facility.
What is the PHECC Cardiac First Response?
It is a nationally recognised lifesaving qualification that teaches you how to respond to a cardiac emergency, perform CPR, and use an AED safely until emergency medical services arrive.
Is this qualification recognised in Ireland?
Yes. The course follows the standards set by the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC), Ireland’s regulatory body for pre-hospital emergency care training.
How long is the qualification valid for?
The qualification is valid for 2 years, we will get in touch 6 months prior to chat you through renewal options.
Can employers book a private course?
Yes employers can book the CFR course as a private course for their team, we recommend this as we can chat through site specific training too!
More Information on this Qualification
Check out the PHECC website by clicking on learn more.