According to the Resuscitation Council UK guidelines, competence in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) must be demonstrated at least every 12 months. This typically involves attending a face-to-face training session run by an approved Resuscitation Council trainer or assessor. The annual requirement includes demonstrating competence in CPR for both children and adults, unless the individual has no pediatric exposure during the period, in which case only adult CPR competence is necessary. This ongoing yearly competence assessment ensures that CPR skills and knowledge are maintained, as studies show a significant decline in CPR proficiency can occur as early as three months after training. Flexibility exists in the training approach, but the one-year interval for reassessment and refresher training is the recommended minimum standard.
