What is the difference between cardiac arrest and a heart attack?

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart malfunctions and stops beating unexpectedly. Cardiac arrest is an electrical malfunction with the heart that causes the heart to stop beating appropriately which disrupts the heart’s blood pumping action to the brain, lungs, and other organs. Cardiac arrest requires immediate treatment as death will otherwise occur within minutes without intervention.

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked. A heart attack is a circulation problem caused by a blocked artery preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching a section of the heart. If the block artery is not relieved, the part of the heart that is served by that artery will begin to die. Unlike cardiac arrest, the heart usually does not stop beating during a heart attack. however the longer the person goes without treatment, the greater the damage to the heart.

This American Heart Association infographic discusses the differences between cardiac arrest and heart attacks.

Why is Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) important?

Every 30 seconds someone dies or is adversely impacted by a heart condition. Nearly 70% of cardiac arrest incidences occur outside of the hospital. Emergency lifesaving procedures like cardiopulmonary resuscitation and defibrillation may make the difference with survival. Keeping the blood flow active – even partially – extends the opportunity for a successful resuscitation once trained medical staff arrive on site – the immediate provision of CPR can double or triple chances of survival after cardiac arrest.

How is the training provided?

All portions of the training are provided in a singular classroom session (either at our training facility in downtown Tokyo or at a suitable location of your choosing), or in a blended-learning format allowing you to take the bulk of the course online with the American Heart Association, followed by an in-person practical skills assessment with an instructor. Visit Our Courses to learn more about the curriculum available.

Courses are currently provided on a bespoke basis at the request of students - we do not presently offer regular open-classroom sessions at our training facility.

What language is the training provided in?

Training is conducted in English - however, Japanese-language training may be available upon request.

Will I receive a Certification or Completion card?

Yes - you will receive a two year electronic certification card after successfully completing the program.

Is it true that every student gets dark chocolate when they attend a class or practical assessment?

Yes you do! Dark chocolate has a variety of surprising health benefits, it’s heart healthy, full of antioxidants - and it tastes great!