Final answer:
Failing to maintain CPR certification can lead to legal disqualification from performing CPR in professional settings, outdated knowledge, and increased risk of causing harm during CPR administration.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you fail to maintain CPR certification, you may be legally disallowed from performing CPR as a job requirement, especially if you are a healthcare professional or have a role where CPR knowledge is critical. Additionally, without certification, your knowledge may be outdated, which increases the risk of harm to the patient. Examples of harm due to improper CPR include broken ribs or sternum, injuring the liver, or even causing fatality.
Moreover, you would miss out on updates to previously learned techniques and fail to maintain the capability to provide the most effective care. For those who perform CPR in a professional setting or as a public service, maintaining certification is key to ensuring patient safety and legal compliance. Regular recertification, which may involve practical assessments on a mannequin, is designed to refresh important skills and keep responders up to date.