Table of Contents:
- Is BLS Certification Required in Philadelphia?
- How to Get BLS Certified in Philadelphia: Step-by-Step Process
- How Long Is BLS Certification Valid in Philadelphia?
- Why Should You Renew Your BLS Certification?
- What to Expect in Your BLS Renewal Class?
- Cost of BLS Certification in Philadelphia
- Why Choose ACLSNow.com for BLS Certification in Philadelphia?
- Get BLS Certified Today in Philadelphia
Have you heard about 16-year-old Maeve Quinn (6 abc Action News, 2020), whose heart suddenly stopped just 20 minutes into softball tryouts? Without any warning signs, this healthy teenager collapsed on the field. Thanks to the immediate intervention from onlookers, Maeve is back on the ballfield and doing great today. Her story represents countless individuals who have experienced sudden cardiac arrest striking without warning.
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death in teenage athletes. In fact, it accounts for approximately 7% of all deaths in the young in the United States (Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center). Therefore, having a BLS certification in Philadelphia increases the chances of immediate bystander help before emergency services arrive.
Read on to find the step-by-step guide and requirements to earn your BLS credential in Philadelphia.
Is BLS Certification Required in Philadelphia?
BLS (Basic Life Support) is emergency care you give to victims during emergencies. The program teaches you about CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), AED (automated external defibrillator) use, and choking relief.
Basic Life Support training in Philadelphia is mandatory for certain professions, such as:
- Healthcare providers: Doctors, nurses, and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) who need to have active BLS certification.
- Teachers and coaches: Educators, athletic coaches, and administrative personnel are required by schools to take BLS training for the safety of students.
- Childcare providers: Daycare workers must have BLS training, with pediatric guidelines, as part of their state licensing requirements.
Philadelphia recognizes the BLS certification programs of numerous institutes, such as the American Heart Association (AHA), the Red Cross, and the American Safety Council.
Let’s take a brief overview of the related laws and regulations for BLS certification:
1949 Public School Code (Act 14 of 1949)
The 1949 Public School Code requires all Pennsylvania schools to offer BLS training on-site at least once every three years. This gives students and staff access to proper training and certification. The act has been revised several times by the state’s General Assembly. It also allows teachers, instructors, and community volunteers to assist with school BLS programs, but only under the supervision of a certified instructor.
Senate Bill 115
Senate Bill 115 emphasizes the hands-only CPR procedure. It encourages bystanders to learn and perform the CPR steps effectively. The bill is expected to eliminate the concerns and doubts of onlookers performing the procedure. With this amendment, Pennsylvania joined 38 other states that have already made BLS a mandatory part of high school education programs.
How to Get BLS Certified in Philadelphia: Step-by-Step Process
Obtaining your BLS certification in Philadelphia requires a few easy steps. Follow the step-by-step instructions below,
Step 1: Choose a Reputable Training Center
Take time to research and compare BLS certification options in Philadelphia. Choose a trustworthy and recognized training provider like the AHA and the Red Cross.
Step 2: Enroll in the BLS Course
Register and pay for a suitable BLS course that fits your availability. For instance, you may choose online or blended courses if you have a busy schedule.
Step 3: Go Through the Course
Work through the learning modules, videos, and skill demonstrations. If you’re taking an online or blended course, you’ll have the flexibility to study at your own pace before attending the skills session.
Step 4: Pass the Assessment
At the end of the program, take the written test and skills assessment to show your proficiency in BLS methods.
Step 5: Obtain Your BLS Certification
Once you clear the exam, you will receive your BLS certificate. You can keep both physical and digital copies for employer verification and future renewals.
Read More: How To Get BLS Certification?
How Long Is BLS Certification Valid in Philadelphia?
BLS certifications in Philadelphia are valid for two years from the date of issue. The validity is universal and in line with national guidelines to ensure that health care providers are current with their knowledge and skills. Prepare your renewal at least three months prior to the deadline so that there are no gaps.
Typically, it will take around 1-3 hours to complete your BLS renewal courses, which might vary depending on the learning format you select. You can also enrol in refresher courses if you have a valid certificate instead of full initial training.
Why Should You Renew Your BLS Certification?
BLS certification renewal gives you several advantages, especially equipping you with skills and confidence to respond immediately to life-threatening crises. Here’s how the recertification benefits you,
Maintain Your Competency
Medical guidelines and protocols evolve based on new research. BLS renewal ensures that you are current with the guidelines, methods, and best practices in emergency treatment.
Refresh Your Skills
As with any other skills, your BLS skills can also decline with time if not used every day. Recertification refreshes your muscle memory to maintain your proficiency and quickly respond to emergencies.
Advance in Your Profession
BLS renewal for healthcare professionals, first responders, and other related fields shows the commitment to ongoing learning, which enhances their career opportunities.
*Infographic Section*
Tips to Renew Your BLS Certification
- Check the expiration date
- Book early to avoid delays
- Choose an accredited renewal course
- Review the latest guidelines
- Practice key skills
- Bring all required documents
- Complete the skills test
- Earn your updated BLS card
Renew Today. Respond Tomorrow. Only at ACLSNow.com!
What to Expect in Your BLS Renewal Class?
A BLS renewal class is a precise review of life-saving skills and knowledge that you have already learned in the initial class. It ensures that you remain prepared and competent in your role.
Let us see what to expect in a BLS renewal course:
Review of Fundamental Concepts
You will go through fundamental concepts in BLS, such as the anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular and respiratory system, the chain of survival, and early intervention.
Updates on Guidelines
Get familiar with the updates or changes to the BLS guidelines, for example, CPR techniques, AED operation, in relation to the latest evidence since your last certification.
Scenario-based Simulations
Practice real-world emergency scenarios through scenario-based drills, where you can practice your BLS skills in a structured environment to enhance your confidence and preparedness for real emergencies.
Interactive Learning Activities
Renewal courses are usually interactive learning exercises like group discussion, case study, and quizzes, used to reinforce significant ideas and further facilitate active learning.
Cost of Philadelphia BLS Certification
The cost of BLS certification in Philadelphia varies depending on the basis of various factors. Nonetheless, knowing the investment will inform you on how to budget accordingly. For example, online BLS certification in Philadelphia is approximately $55 for initial certification and $85 for renewal, while other in-person alternatives can be extremely different.
Why Choose ACLSNow.com for BLS Certification in Philadelphia?
We offer one of the most convenient and learner-focused BLS training options in Philadelphia. The course is designed to fit your schedule while still giving you strong, practical value. Here’s what makes it a reliable choice for your BLS certification:
Nationally Accredited
We comply with the American Heart Association (AHA) and International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) standards. It means almost every employee across Philadelphia recognizes and accepts our certification.
Expert-Crafted Curriculum
All course content is developed by healthcare professionals and emergency response specialists, ensuring the latest guidelines and interactive simulations.
24/7 Support Services
Seek our technical support service help for any platform-related problems or voice out your concerns with our customer care officers during the certification process.
Affordable Pricing Plan
We offer an open pricing scheme without extra fees or unexpected charges. Additionally, you can utilize our discounts for group enrollments.
Read More: A Simple Guide to Becoming a BLS Instructor
Get BLS Certified Today in Philadelphia
A BLS certification in Philadelphia is an important requirement for every individual who needs to be prepared for emergencies, whether in the workplace or at home. The city’s bustling business districts, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions seek to employ individuals with the certification. The process to get BLS certified is straightforward; nonetheless, make sure to learn about the specific requirements according to your job role.
Sign up for an online BLS course today and be prepared to make a positive impact when it counts the most.
