Workplace CPR
First Aid and CPR training for child care providers
To help ensure children's health and safety in child care, the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) requires all educators to complete training in First Aid and CPR. You must maintain your current certification in First Aid, and you must renew your CPR certification annually (Mass.gov, 2020).
"Choking is a leading cause of injury and death among children, especially those younger than 4 years of age. The majority of choking-related incidents among children are associated with food, coins, and toys" (Nationwide Children's Hospital, 2016).
According to the AAP:
To reduce the risk of choking, parents and caregivers can do their part by following these safety tips:
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Do not give children younger than 4 any round, firm foods unless they have been cut into very small pieces. Cut hot dogs lengthwise and cut grapes into quarters. This changes the dangerous round shape that can block a young child's throat.
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Do not give toddlers other high-risk foods, such as hard candy, nuts, seeds, and raw carrots.
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Never let small children run, play, or lie down while eating.
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Keep coins and other small items out of reach of young children at all times.
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Carefully read warning labels on toys before giving them to young children.
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To check if a part of a toy is too small, use a small parts test device, which is available at many toy stores.
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Additionally, parents and caregivers should learn first aid for choking and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event a choking episode occurs.