Role and Responsibility of the Cardiac First Responder – Advanced Level 

A cardiac first responder Advanced 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. 

Entry to the CFR Advanced level is aimed at persons who may be working in the emergency medical services, fire and rescue services or a healthcare professional working in healthcare facilities or in the community. In addition to responding to patients in the course of their duties responders can provide lifesaving skills in their homes and communities. 

In addition to the competencies taught at CFR Community level, the Advanced level course teaches the airway management: suctioning, use of an oropharyngeal airway (OPA), supraglottic airway (SGA) uncuffed devices, bag valve mask (BVM), pulse checks, roles in team resuscitation and oxygen administration. If there is a concern about maintaining competency in all the required CFR Advanced level skills (in particular BVM use), Council recommends that an individual consider seriously that CFR Community level is more appropriate. 

New in 2016 is team resuscitation. It’s recommended that CFR responder/community responder groups learn more about this approach to improve the efficacy of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (basic and advanced life support) when interacting with healthcare professionals. 

Successful completion of the CFR Advanced 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.