Foster families: first-aid and CPR standards

First Aid & CPR Pennsylvania

Becoming a foster parent in Pennsylvania means providing a safe, temporary home to a child who cannot remain with their own family, through a foster family care agency. Being ready for a medical emergency, through recognized first-aid and CPR training, is a valued part of preparing to care for a child.

The first-aid requirement

In Pennsylvania, foster family care agencies approve foster homes under 55 Pa. Code Chapter 3700. The state foster-parent regulation does not itself impose a first-aid/CPR certification requirement, but foster family care agencies commonly require a current first-aid and CPR certificate from a recognized organization before a placement, so caregivers can respond to injuries, choking and cardiac arrest.

Approval and training are administered by the licensed foster family care agency under the Department of Human Services. Where required, the certificate must be kept current, and it is one expectation in addition to the home study, background checks and the assessment of parenting suitability.

How to meet it

A recognized, up-to-date first-aid and CPR certificate meets this requirement. It is in addition to the required training or assessment, and is renewed periodically.

See the recognized first-aid courses in your region

Training aligned with the latest emergency-care standards

Our CPR, AED and first-aid training is developed in line with the most recent international guidelines for emergency cardiovascular care and first aid.

We rigorously follow the recommendations of ILCOR (International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation), the international body responsible for the scientific evaluation and development of global resuscitation standards. These recommendations serve as a reference for health organizations, institutions and professional orders worldwide — and are updated as scientific and clinical evidence evolves.

Keep your skills current with confidence

Every intervention can make a difference. Keeping CPR and emergency-care skills current is both a professional requirement and a responsibility toward patients, colleagues and the public.

See the recognized first-aid courses in your region

References

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