Resume Skills: Filling out the Health Section with Confidence

The health section of a resume, often referred to as the “Health & Safety,” “First Aid,” or similar, is a crucial component for many roles, particularly those in fields like healthcare, education, construction, and any environment where safety is paramount. Knowing how to accurately and confidently present your relevant health-related skills is essential for making a strong impression on potential employers.

Why the Health Section Matters

• 
  Demonstrates Preparedness:
  
  Shows you are prepared to handle medical emergencies.
• 
  Enhances Safety Culture:
  
  Contributes to a safer workplace environment.
• 
  Meeting Job Requirements:
  
  Oftena mandatory requirement for specific positions.
• 
  Projecting Professionalism:
  
  Highlights your commitment to responsibility and care.

Key Skills to Include

The specific skills you list willdepend on your experience and the job requirements. Here are some common examples:

• 
  First Aid Certification:
  
  CPR/AED certified, Wilderness First Aid, etc. Be specific about the certifying organization (e.g., American Red Cross, St. JohnAmbulance).
• 
  CPR/AED Certification:
  
  Essential for many roles. Specify whether you are certified for adults, children, and infants.
• 
  Basic Life Support (BLS):
  
  Often required in healthcare settings.
• 
  Wilderness First Aid:
  
  Suitable for roles involving outdoor activities or remote locations.
• 
  Specific Medical Skills (if relevant):
  
  If you have relevant medical training like phlebotomy, wound care, or medication administration, list them.
• 
  Company-Specific Training:
  
  Include any training related to the specific workplace, such as handling hazardous materials or emergency procedures.

How to Format Your Health Section

1. 
   Clear Heading:
   
   Choose a clear and concise heading (e.g., “Certifications,” “Health & Safety,” or “First Aid & CPR”).
2. 
   List the Certifications:
   
   List each certification separately.
3. <

   
   Certifications
   

   • CPR/AED Certified (American Red Cross) – Expires: December 2024
   • First Aid Certified (American Red Cross) – Expires: December 2024

   
   Example 2 (More Detailed):
   

   
   Health & Safety
   

   • CPR/AED and Basic First Aid Certified (American Heart Association) – Valid until: June 2025. Includes infant, child, and adultresuscitation protocols.
   • Wilderness First Responder (NOLS Wilderness Medicine) – Certified: July 2023

Staying Current

Remember that certifications have expiration dates. It’s yourresponsibility to maintain your certifications and keep your skills current. Be prepared to provide proof of certification (e.g., a copy of your card) upon request.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently and effectively present your health-related skills on your resume, setting yourself apart from other candidates and demonstrating your commitment to safety and well-being.