Role and responsibility of the Cardiac First Responder - Community Level

A cardiac first responder Community level is a person trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and in the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) who can respond to someone who has suddenly collapsed. A cardiac first responder plays a critical role in keeping a person alive until the commencement of expert medical care.

A cardiac first responder may be part of the emergency medical services, a healthcare practitioner or a member of the public who has undertaken a Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC) recognised course within the last 2 years. CFR Community level is the pre or co-requisite for entry to PHECC’s Emergency Care (Special Circumstances) courses.

Cardiac first responders at Community level include citizens and trained members of Volunteer Organisations and Emergency Agencies such as An Garda Síochána and the Civil Defence etc who may be dispatched or come across the following emergencies: cardiac arrest, heart attack, choking and stroke. The care management includes, FAST assessment, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for adults, children and infants, AED use and Aspirin administration.

Successful completion of the CFR Community standard leads to the award of the joint recognised institution and PHECC award. This award ensures that the responder has fulfilled the educational and training requirements as prescribed by PHECC, thereby possessing the knowledge, skills and professionalism in line with the expectations of the public and the profession. It is recommended that the cardiac first responder ensure their ongoing competency by participation in annual refresher training and certification every two years.