what is a bls

BLS stands for Basic Life Support, which generally refers to the type of care that first-responders, healthcare providers, and public safety professionals provide to anyone who is experiencing cardiac arrest or other life-threatening emergencies. BLS certification is a crucial credential for individuals involved in healthcare, emergency response, and anyone interested in being prepared to assist in life-threatening situations. The American Red Cross and the American Heart Association offer BLS courses that train participants to promptly recognize several life-threatening emergencies, give high-quality chest compressions, deliver appropriate ventilations, and provide early use of an AED. BLS program content includes single-and multiple-responder CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and AED (automatic external defibrillator) use, as well as how to care for a patient who has an obstructed airway (choking) . Healthcare professionals, first responders, and individuals in certain job roles often require BLS certification, as it teaches the skills needed to provide life-saving assistance in emergency situations. To get BLS certification, one needs to complete a training course provided by organizations such as the American Heart Association (AHA) or the American Red Cross.