Intro
Get certified in Basic Life Support (BLS) with our 5-step guide. Learn the skills to save lives with our comprehensive BLS certification training, covering CPR, AED use, and airway management. Master the American Heart Association (AHA) BLS standards and become a certified healthcare provider with our expert-approved certification process.
Becoming a certified Basic Life Support (BLS) provider is an essential step for many healthcare professionals, as well as individuals who work in high-risk industries or have a desire to learn life-saving skills. In this article, we will guide you through the 5 steps to achieve BLS certification, highlighting the importance of this credential and the skills you will acquire along the way.
What is BLS Certification?
BLS certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual's ability to perform high-quality chest compressions, use an automated external defibrillator (AED), and provide rescue breathing during a cardiac emergency. This certification is offered by the American Heart Association (AHA) and is recognized nationwide.
Why is BLS Certification Important?
BLS certification is crucial for healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs), as it ensures they have the necessary skills to respond to cardiac emergencies. Additionally, many industries, such as fitness centers, schools, and manufacturing facilities, require their employees to be BLS certified.
Step 1: Meet the Prerequisites
Before enrolling in a BLS certification course, you must meet the prerequisites, which typically include:
- Being at least 18 years old
- Having a high school diploma or equivalent
- Having a valid government-issued ID
Step 2: Choose a BLS Certification Course
Once you meet the prerequisites, you can choose a BLS certification course that suits your needs. The AHA offers various courses, including:
- BLS Provider Course: This course is designed for healthcare professionals and covers adult, child, and infant CPR, as well as AED use.
- BLS Renewal Course: This course is designed for individuals who need to renew their BLS certification.
- BLS Online Course: This course is designed for individuals who prefer online learning and covers the same material as the in-person course.
Step 3: Complete the Course Material
The BLS certification course typically includes both online and in-person components. The online component covers the theoretical aspects of BLS, while the in-person component focuses on hands-on training.
Step 4: Pass the Written and Practical Exams
After completing the course material, you will need to pass both a written and practical exam. The written exam tests your knowledge of BLS concepts, while the practical exam assesses your ability to perform CPR and use an AED.
Step 5: Maintain Your Certification
BLS certification is valid for two years, after which you will need to renew it. To maintain your certification, you can take a BLS renewal course or complete an online renewal program.
Conclusion
BLS certification is an essential credential for healthcare professionals and individuals who work in high-risk industries. By following these 5 steps, you can achieve BLS certification and demonstrate your ability to respond to cardiac emergencies. Remember to maintain your certification by completing a renewal course or online program every two years.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to achieving BLS certification. If you have any questions or would like to share your experiences, please leave a comment below.
What is the difference between BLS and CPR certification?
+BLS certification covers adult, child, and infant CPR, as well as AED use, while CPR certification only covers CPR techniques.
How long is BLS certification valid?
+BLS certification is valid for two years, after which you will need to renew it.
Can I take a BLS certification course online?
+Yes, the AHA offers an online BLS certification course that covers the same material as the in-person course.