The American Heart Association and Laerdal Medical announced the nationwide launch of Self-Guided Learning, a new resuscitation training delivery model that enables learners to complete HeartCode Complete coursework and skills verification on their own schedule. The initiative addresses challenges faced by millions required to undergo credentialed resuscitation training while balancing demanding schedules and limited access to in-person instruction.
Self-Guided Learning is an independent training option for HeartCode Complete courses in Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). Learners complete a self-paced online activity on any compatible device, followed by a hands-on skills session at a CPR Verification Station learning center. The station uses advanced simulation technology to provide real-time, audiovisual feedback and coaching without instructor oversight.
The American Heart Association is the first and only U.S. training organization directly involved in creating resuscitation scientific guidelines and education, leading development of official guidelines used by all other CPR and First Aid training providers in the U.S. and in over 90 countries. Laerdal Medical, a world leader in medical simulation and resuscitation training, has collaborated with the Association for over 20 years to develop resuscitation education.
“By expanding training options from instructor-led to self-guided learning, we are removing barriers to access while maintaining the science, skills validation, and standards the American Heart Association is known for,” said John Meiners, chief of Mission Aligned Businesses for the American Heart Association. “Self-Guided Learning helps prepare more people to act when lives are on the line and brings us closer to our goal of doubling cardiac arrest survival by 2030.”
As of March 2026, Self-Guided Learning and CPR Verification Station learning centers are available in 47 states, with expansion to all 50 soon. Students can locate centers using CPR Finder by entering their ZIP code. They are then directed to a Premier Distributor’s website for steps to complete course requirements.
“Self-Guided Learning provides an easily accessible, effective training option for people who need BLS, ACLS, and PALS training and prefer independent learning,” said Alf-Christian Dybdahl, CEO of Laerdal Medical. “This delivery model represents another significant milestone in our shared mission to transform how CPR is taught and learned.”
The model is ideal for healthcare professionals and students seeking flexible, self-paced learning; allied health providers; remote and rural healthcare and workplace staff; emergency medical services professionals; and initial or renewal learners requiring an American Heart Association Course Completion eCard.
Self-Guided Learning expands the Association’s global CPR training footprint, which includes instructor-led, blended learning, and a digital CPR training solution verifying competence every 90 days. Each method offers BLS, ACLS, and PALS courses with completion eCards issued upon finishing all required activities.
For additional information, visit CPRFinder.com. To learn about instructor-led and blended training options, visit cpr.heart.org. Information on digital CPR training programs is available at rqipartners.com.
