Upcoming CPR Classes in Rhode Island
Rhode Island's healthcare and higher education sectors, manufacturing economy, and tourism industry create CPR certification demand in the smallest state by area in the country. Lifespan Health System, Care New England, and Brown University Health are the largest employers requiring current BLS certification for clinical staff. Rhode Island's Department of Children, Youth and Families requires CPR certification for all licensed childcare providers. The state's growing biotech and defense contracting presence adds employer compliance training demand.
CPR Requirements in Rhode Island
State law governs who must hold CPR certification and what type of training qualifies. Here is what you need to know before registering for a class in Rhode Island.
👶 Childcare & Daycare Requirements
Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) Child Care Licensing requires all licensed childcare staff to hold current CPR and First Aid certification covering Adult, Child, and Infant CPR with AED training. Certification must be completed prior to working with children and renewed every two years.
🏥 Healthcare Professional Requirements
Rhode Island Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education and major health systems including Lifespan and Care New England require BLS certification for nurses and allied health professionals. AHA BLS is the accepted standard across all major employers and licensing boards statewide.
⚡ AED & Public Access Defibrillation Laws
Rhode Island General Laws 23-4.6 require AEDs in health clubs, public schools, and certain public facilities. The law provides liability protection for trained AED users and mandates registration with local EMS. Rhode Island also requires CPR instruction in public high schools.
⚖️ Good Samaritan Law in Rhode Island
Rhode Island General Laws 9-1-27.1 protect any person who renders emergency care in good faith at the scene of an emergency from civil liability, provided assistance is rendered without compensation and without gross negligence or willful misconduct.
📊 Cardiac Arrest in Rhode Island
Rhode Island experiences approximately 3,200 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest events per year. Providence and surrounding communities have invested in community CPR training programs, and Rhode Island has above-average bystander CPR rates compared to national benchmarks.
Top Cities in Rhode Island
City-specific pages are coming as listings grow in each market. Search by zip on the main class finder to see what is available nearest you right now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CPR certification and classes in Rhode Island.
Who needs CPR certification in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, CPR certification is commonly required for licensed childcare and daycare staff, healthcare professionals such as nurses and clinical staff. Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) Child Care Licensing requires all licensed childcare staff to hold current CPR and First Aid certification covering Adult, Child, and Infant CPR with AED training. Certification must be completed prior to working with children and renewed every two years.
How long is CPR certification valid in Rhode Island?
Most CPR certifications in Rhode Island, including AHA and Red Cross courses, are valid for two years from the date of issue. Some workplace or licensing roles may require annual refreshers, so confirm the exact term for your role before your certification expires.
What is the difference between BLS and Heartsaver CPR?
BLS (Basic Life Support) is designed for healthcare providers and professional rescuers and is the standard for clinical staff. Heartsaver courses are designed for lay responders and workplace requirements such as OSHA compliance. Both carry recognized certification.
What CPR certifications are accepted in Rhode Island?
Employers and licensing bodies in Rhode Island generally accept certifications from major bodies such as the AHA and American Red Cross. Rhode Island Board of Nurse Registration and Nursing Education and major health systems including Lifespan and Care New England require BLS certification for nurses and allied health professionals. AHA BLS is the accepted standard across all major employers and licensing boards statewide.
Where can I take a CPR class in Rhode Island?
CPR classes are available across Rhode Island, including in Providence, Warwick, Cranston, Pawtucket, East Providence, Woonsocket, and other cities. Use the class finder to search by zip code and see verified instructors and upcoming dates nearest you.