Table of content
- Introduction
- Why is it important to renew your BLS card on time?
- What is the eligibility criteria for BLS renewal?
- What are the requirements for BLS renewal?
- How to renew BLS certification?
- Online vs. In-person BLS renewal
- What are the common mistakes to avoid during BLS card renewal?
- Conclusion
A valid basic life support certification is vital for both healthcare professionals and laymen. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that the certification has an expiration date and you must renew it every two years. Has your BLS card reached its expiry date? This blog can help you renew BLS certification easily.
Why is it important to renew your BLS card on time?
Renewing your BLS (Basic Life Support) card on time is essential to ensure that your life-saving skills stay up to date. When does a BLS certification expire? BLS certification typically expires every two years, and allowing it to lapse can leave you unprepared in emergency situations. Many employers, especially in healthcare, require a valid BLS certification as part of their job requirements. If your card expires, you will not be able to work until you renew it. This can be harmful for your career.
The guidelines keep changing over time. So when you renew the BLS card on schedule, you can stay updated on the latest procedures. If you stay updated, it helps to boost your skills and ensures you are updated.
What is the eligibility criteria for BLS renewal?
Individuals must hold a valid and unexpired BLS certification. Anyone seeking BLS certification must maintain the certification to avoid lapses. Here is the eligibility criteria for BLS renewal:
- Must hold a current and valid BLS certification.
- Certification should be nearing expiration (typically within 6 months).
- Must be a healthcare professional or required to have BLS certification for work.
- Must complete a BLS renewal course approved by a reputed organization.
- Must demonstrate up-to-date skills in CPR and other life-saving techniques during the renewal course.
What are the requirements for BLS renewal?
If you renew BLS certification, you can maintain your professional qualification. It is easy to perform the renewal process, and here are its requirements:
- A current, non-expired BLS certification card.
- Complete a nationally accepted BLS renewal course.
- Demonstration of proper CPR, AED, and other lifesaving skills during hands-on training.
- Passing a written or online exam that tests your knowledge of BLS procedures.
- Payment of any associated course fees or certification costs.
How to renew BLS certification?
Renewing your BLS card is easy and involves the following steps:
- Identify your certification expiration date: Identify when your certification is going to expire. You can find this information on your card. This shows the expiration date.
- Choose a renewal course once your certification’s expiry date is nearing: The next step is to choose a renewal course. There are several options for renewal courses, including in-person and online. You can choose the course that suits your schedule and learning style.
- Complete the renewal course: Once you register online, it is time for you to complete the course. Learn by watching instructional videos, taking quizzes, and passing successfully.
- Pass the exam: Take the quiz and pass the examination successfully. This exam evaluates your knowledge of BLS techniques. So you must review the course materials to get the BLS certification card.
- Maintain your certification: Once you get your BLS certification, it is also important to maintain it. The certification is valid for two years, and you must renew it to maintain it. Keep an eye on the certification expiration date and do not let it lapse.
Read more: How To Get BLS Certification?
Online vs. In-person BLS renewal
Want to explore more about online and in-person BLS renewal certification? Keep reading:
| Feature | Online BLS renewal | In-person renewal |
| Flexibility | Offers flexibility to complete the course at your own pace and convenience. | Fixed schedule. You must attend a specific class at a designated time and location. |
| Learning environment | Self-guided. Includes video tutorials, quizzes and an examination. There is no in-person interaction. | Hands-on learning. Offers real-time feedback from instructors and peer interaction. |
| Time commitment | Can be completed in a few hours, depending on your schedule. | Needs a full day or at least a few hours. |
| Cost | Online BLS renewal is more affordable and cuts down on travel and venue costs. | This is more expensive due to the instructor fees, venue and travel costs. |
| Interaction level | Limited interaction with instructors. | Highly interactive as there are instructors and other participants involved. |
BLS online and in-person renewal: Which is right for you?
Opting for online BLS renewal offers more flexibility, allowing you to complete the course at your own pace. The online format includes quizzes, video tutorials, and a final examination. This makes it convenient for everyone having busy schedules. It is more affordable as it eliminates costs associated with venues and travel.
So if you are thinking which one is right for you, you must choose BLS online due to the following reasons:
- Flexibility: You can complete the course whenever it suits you, making it ideal for busy professionals.
- Cost-effective: Online courses often cost less due to lower overhead and travel expenses.
- Convenience: No need to travel to a class location; everything can be done from home.
- Self-Paced Learning: You can progress through the materials at your own speed, whether fast or slow.
- Quick Completion: Many online courses can be completed in just a few hours, saving you time.
What are the common mistakes to avoid during BLS card renewal?
Renewing your BLS card is vital, and here are a few common mistakes that can cause delays or complications. You must renew your BLS card on time. But do not rush and make mistakes.
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid during BLS card renewal:
- Waiting Until Your Certification Expires: Many people wait too long to renew. This causes a lapse in certification, affecting your ability to work.
- Choosing an Unaccredited Course: Make sure that the course is nationally recognized to maintain valid credentials.
- Skipping Hands-On Practice: Some courses need to demonstrate practical skills, and skipping this step can invalidate your renewal.
- Not Passing the Exam: Failing to adequately prepare for the renewal exam can delay certification.
- Missing Required Documents: Ensure you have your current BLS card and any other required paperwork ready for the renewal process.
Read more: CPR vs. BLS Training: What’s the Difference?
Conclusion
Does BLS expire? Yes, BLS expires and you must renew BLS certification to maintain it. Renewing your BLS certification is easy and straightforward. It is a must to maintain your life-saving skills and stay updated. So renew on time by following the steps as mentioned above. This will help you stay certified and prepare you for an emergency situation that may arise. Register online for BLS renewal classes and stay updated.
