Table of content(s)
- Introduction
- What is BLS certification?
- What does a BLS certification course include?
- How do I get BLS certification online?
- Who needs BLS certification?
- What is the difference between CPR and BLS?
- How much does BLS training cost?
- How long does it take to get BLS certified?
- How long does BLS certification last?
- Can you get your certification online?
- Conclusion
Basic life support certification provides immediate care to people during cardiac arrest, respiratory distress, or obstructed airways. BLS training teaches lifesaving skills such as performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It prioritizes effective and quick action to maintain blood flow and breathing until professional help arrives. Keep reading to explore what BLS certification is, and what it includes.
What is BLS certification?
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is a credential that proves competency in essential life-saving techniques, including CPR, AED use, and choking relief for adults, children, and infants. Required for healthcare workers, first responders, and many other professionals, BLS certification is typically provided by organizations like the American Heart Association or Red Cross, and must be renewed every 2 years through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on practice.
What does a BLS certification course include?
People who are BLS certified meaning they will learn various medical skills to help empower them to respond to emergencies. BLS skills monitor the victim’s vital signs to keep the patient alive ane avoid brain damage and death.
BLS certification courses cover the following:
- High-quality CPR for adults, children, and infants
- Automated external defibrillator training
- Single and multi-rescuer resuscitation
- Emergency oxygen administration
- The chain of survival for cardiac emergencies
- Bleeding control
- Emergency medical services
- Scene safety
- Relief of choking
How do I get BLS certification online?
Getting a BLS certification through an online course is accessible, convenient, and an affordable option for healthcare professionals. Here is a quick overview of how to get a BLS certification:
- Select a reputable provider: When choosing a provider, ensure that they are nationally accepted by a reputable organization. Locate nearby testing centers and make sure they are reputed and recognized.
- Register for the course: Once you select a provider offering courses within your budget and meet your learning requirements, you are ready to register. BLS certification providers have made this a simple process. Some providers may offer individual or group enrollment.
- Complete the training modules: If you register for an online BLS course, you can access the modules 24*7. The training modules comprise video lectures, interactive demonstrations, and downloadable study materials. Follow the curriculum and cover key topics such as CPR techniques, AED usage, and choking management. Take your time to understand the content thoroughly.
- Pass the certification exam: Every BLS certification process has a closing exam to analyze what you have learned and make sure you show your knowledge. To earn your BLS certification, pass the exam, which will have a set time to complete.
Who needs BLS certification?
Similar to CPR certification, here are several professionals required to be BLS-certified, such as:
- Healthcare providers
- Teachers
- Daycare professionals
- Police officers
- Paramedics/EMS professionals
- Lifeguards
- Athletic coaches
If you work in a facility where you are responsible for the safety of children or your profession demands taking care of the public, you must hold a BLS certification.
Read more: How To Put BLS Certification On Resume?
What is the difference between CPR and BLS?
| Feature | CPR | BLS |
| Definition | A technique used to manually maintain heart and lung function by chest compressions and rescue breaths. | A higher level of emergency care that includes CPR but also involves additional skills like using an AED, bag-mask ventilation, and team-based care. |
| Target Audience | General public, including non-medical individuals who want to learn life-saving techniques. | Primarily healthcare professionals, first responders, and those required by their job to have more advanced emergency skills. |
| Training Focus | Teaches basic chest compressions and rescue breaths for cardiac arrest. | Covers CPR, AED use, ventilation techniques, and team dynamics in emergencies. |
| Depth of Instruction | Focuses only on the basics of life-saving actions. | More comprehensive, includes multiple-rescuer scenarios and managing airway obstructions. |
| AED Training | Optional in some CPR courses. | Mandatory in BLS certification. |
| Emergency Situations | Suitable for basic emergencies like heart attack or choking. | Suitable for a wider range of medical emergencies, including respiratory and cardiac arrest. |
| Renewal Period | Typically valid for 1-2 years, depending on the provider. | Typically valid for 2 years. |
| Course Length | Shorter, usually a few hours. | Longer, often more detailed and in-depth. |
Read more: How to Perform CPR?
How much does BLS training cost?
The cost of BLS training can vary depending on the provider and the location. $60 to $100. It is affordable, especially if you are choosing a completely online course. If your job requires you to have a BLS certificate, you must check with your supervisor to see if your employer will cover the cost of the certification process.
How long does it take to get BLS certified?
It takes a few hours to get BLS certified. Depending on the kind of course you have chosen to take-fully in, online, or a combination of the two, a BLS certification class can be completed in under 3 hours. You can get certification cards online, but it also takes a couple of days to arrive in the mail if you need a physical certificate.
How long does BLS certification last?
Upon successfully completing the BLS certification, you will get a certification card. This is valid for two years, after which you must recertify to maintain certification.
Can you get your certification online?
Yes, you can get your certification online, as there are several reputed certification providers offering online certification. The online courses are easier, more affordable, and faster.
Conclusion
Now that you know what BLS certification is, you must enroll in an online BLS certification course and make a strong impact in your community. Get equipped with key lifesaving skills and protect lives. It is not only necessary for healthcare providers but also for everyone who wants to lend a helping hand during emergencies. Deliver prompt, effective, and high-quality care in critical situations and improve the chances of survival.
