CPR training checklist: what to arrange and when

A CPR training session needs more than a trainer and a room. You must coordinate registrations, participant information, training equipment, practice stations and the final room setup. This checklist takes you from confirming the location and trainers to welcoming participants and delivering the theory and skills sessions. Use the earlier tasks for planning and the final setup steps on the training day, when missing cables, uncharged equipment or too few manikins can delay the start.

Organize this event for free with Lizzt

The plan, step by step

Every task with its own sub-checklist, in the order you'll actually need them.

Preparations

Confirm training location
Finalize trainers
Create the participant list
Send invitations
Process registrations
Collect dietary requirements
Send reminder
Check training materials
2 people
Confirm trainer attendance
Print participant information
Do the shopping
2 people
Test presentation and videos
Fully charge equipment
Check the venue and access
Set up tables and chairs
2 people
Set up training stations
2 people
Set up projector and screen
Set up the presentation table
Set up the registration table
Prepare coffee and tea

Event

Receive participants
2 people
Register attendance
Give welcome briefing
Give CPR theory session
2 people
Demonstrate CPR skills
2 people
Let participants practice
3 people
Restock drinks and snacks
Demonstrate AED use
2 people
Lead scenario exercises
3 people
Handle questions and wrap-up
2 people
Hand out participant forms

Aftercare

Clean training equipment
2 people
Switch off and pack up equipment
2 people
Clear tables and chairs
2 people
Wash dishes
Collect waste
Clean the room
2 people
Store remaining catering
Return materials
Send participant certificates

What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Chairsqty 24
Tablesqty 4
Registration desk
Presentation table

Training materials

Adult CPR manikinsqty 4
AED trainerqty 2
Respirator masksqty 24
Disposable face shieldsqty 30
Practice glovesqty 2
Training matsqty 6
Anatomical postersqty 2
CPR protocolsqty 24
Flip chart
Flip chart sheetsqty 15
Markersqty 12
Name stickersqty 24
Ballpoint pensqty 30

Equipment

Laptop
Projector
Projection screen
HDMI cableqty 2
Power stripsqty 3
Extension cordsqty 3
Timerqty 2

Tableware

Coffee cupsqty 24
Drinking glassesqty 24
Platesqty 24
Serving spoonsqty 4

Kitchen

Coffee maker
Kettle
Thermos flasksqty 2
Coolersqty 2

Cleaning

Waste binsqty 3

Catering

Groceries

Tips

Confirm the room, access arrangements and trainer attendance before sending invitations. Participants need a firm location and schedule, while you need to know that the people leading the session are available.
Plan the practical setup around the number of participants. Arrange tables, chairs and training stations before arrival, and check that every station has the required manikin, training mat, gloves and face protection.
Test the laptop, projector, screen, HDMI cable and presentation videos at the venue before participants arrive. Charge electronic equipment fully and keep power strips and extension cords available for the actual room layout.
Prepare registration materials before the first arrival. Print participant information, set out name stickers and pens, and keep the registration desk separate from the presentation table so late arrivals do not interrupt the briefing.
Allow time for refreshments without cutting into instruction. Prepare the coffee maker and kettle before the session, and collect dietary requirements during registration so they are known before shopping and serving.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I organise CPR training?: Start booking the location and confirming trainers at least 3 to 4 weeks before the session. Send invitations once the date, room and trainer availability are fixed, leaving time to process registrations and collect dietary requirements.
How many CPR practice stations do I need?: Plan one practical station for each small working group, based on the number of participants and available trainers. Set up all stations before registration, including adult CPR manikins, training mats, practice gloves and respirator masks or disposable face shields.
When should I send the CPR training reminder?: Send the reminder 2 to 3 days before the training. Include the start time, venue access information and anything participants need to know, then use the final day to check materials, videos and equipment.
How early should I arrive for a CPR training session?: Arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before participants. Use that time to set up the registration and presentation tables, arrange chairs and training stations, test the projector, and prepare coffee and tea.

Start this plan in Lizzt

Every task and item on this page, ready in your own event. Invite people, split the work, and see who has done what.