Standard First Aid vs CPR-HCP: Which Certification Is Right for Healthcare Workers?
If you work in healthcare, having the right certification is more than just a requirement — it’s part of saving lives every day. Whether you’re a nurse, personal support worker (PSW), medical student, or caregiver, two of the most common certifications you’ll come across are Standard First Aid and CPR-HCP (Health Care Provider). But what’s the difference, and which one should you choose?
At AquaSafe Pro Training, we provide WSIB-approved First Aid & CPR training across the GTA, designed to help healthcare professionals stay compliant, confident, and ready to act in emergencies.
What Is Standard First Aid?
Standard First Aid (SFA) is a comprehensive two-day course that covers a wide range of medical emergencies and injuries. It’s one of the most widely recognized workplace certifications in Ontario and is often required for healthcare and community care roles.
Key topics include:
CPR techniques for adults, children, and infants
Choking emergencies
Severe bleeding, burns, and shock management
Musculoskeletal injuries (sprains, fractures)
Stroke, seizures, and diabetic emergencies
Poisoning and environmental emergencies
👉 Who needs it?
Healthcare workers, childcare providers, teachers, fitness professionals, and anyone working in settings where comprehensive first aid knowledge is required.
What Is CPR-HCP?
CPR-HCP (Health Care Provider) is an advanced CPR course tailored specifically to healthcare settings. It goes deeper than standard CPR training, focusing on professional-level resuscitation techniques used in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Key topics include:
One- and two-rescuer CPR techniques
Use of bag-valve masks (BVMs)
Responding to respiratory and cardiac emergencies in clinical settings
Advanced airway management considerations
AED (Automated External Defibrillator) use in healthcare environments
👉 Who needs it?
Doctors, nurses, PSWs, paramedics, dentists, medical students, and other healthcare professionals.
Standard First Aid vs CPR-HCP: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between Standard First Aid and CPR-HCP depends on your role, employer requirements, and work environment.
👉 In many healthcare roles, employers may require both Standard First Aid and CPR-HCP certification to ensure you’re prepared for a wide variety of emergencies.
Why Train with AquaSafe Pro Training?
At AquaSafe Pro Training, we make certification simple, flexible, and professional:
✅ WSIB-approved courses recognized across Ontario
✅ Experienced instructors with healthcare and emergency backgrounds
✅ On-site training available across the GTA
✅ Flexible scheduling for individuals and groups
✅ Certification valid for 3 years
Get Certified Today
If you’re a healthcare worker in the GTA, having the right certification isn’t just about meeting job requirements — it’s about being ready to save lives.
👉 Visit www.aquasafeprotraining.ca today to explore Standard First Aid and CPR-HCP courses, and contact us to book training for your workplace or healthcare team.
With AquaSafe Pro Training, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to respond when it matters most.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Certification requirements may vary by workplace, regulatory body, or employer. Always consult with your employer, professional association, or a certified training provider to confirm which certifications are required for your role. AquaSafe Pro Training does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this post.