Foster families: first-aid and CPR standards

First Aid & CPR Maryland

Becoming a resource (foster) parent in Maryland means providing a safe, stable home to a child in State care. First-aid and CPR readiness is commonly expected of foster caregivers, and pre-service and continuing training are required for approval. It is one part of a process centred on the home study and the family's suitability.

The first-aid requirement

In Maryland, resource (foster) parents complete pre-service training and a minimum of continuing training each year under the foster care regulations (COMAR 07.05.02), administered by the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS). First-aid and CPR readiness is commonly expected of caregivers, and many agencies require current certification, though it is not always spelled out as a stand-alone statutory item in the licensing rule.

Where required, the certification must be kept current and is one condition in addition to the home study, medical screening and the parenting suitability the Department assesses. Holding a certificate does not by itself qualify a person to be a resource parent.

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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