The purpose of basic life support (BLS) is to sustain life during critical moments after a cardiac arrest or other life-threatening emergencies by maintaining vital functions such as an open airway, breathing, and circulation until advanced medical care can be provided. BLS focuses on providing prompt recognition and immediate support through techniques like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and, where available, the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) to maintain oxygen flow to the brain and heart, thereby increasing the chances of survival and preventing irreversible damage.
Key Aspects of Basic Life Support
- Maintain vital functions : BLS ensures the airway is open, breathing is effective, and circulation is sustained.
- Support cardiac and respiratory function : Through chest compressions and rescue breaths (or compression-only CPR), BLS manually supports blood flow and oxygen delivery.
- Bridge to advanced care : BLS provides critical care until advanced life support providers arrive.
- Chain of Survival : BLS is a crucial part of the chain of survival, which includes early recognition, CPR, defibrillation, and advanced care.
Overall Goal
The main goal is to protect the brain and heart from hypoxic damage that can occur within minutes of cardiac arrest by ensuring oxygenated blood continues to circulate until definitive treatment can be administered.
