BLS Certified • FAQ

What is a certified BLS?

A certified BLS (Basic Life Support) provider is an individual who has completed a BLS training course and passed a written and skills test to demonstrate their proficiency in providing emergency medical care in life-threatening situations.

Why becoming BLS certified?

Becoming certified in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) has several benefits:

• Life Saving Skill: CPR is a life-saving technique that can preserve brain function until further medical treatment can be given. By becoming certified in CPR, an individual is prepared to respond in an emergency situation and potentially save a person’s life.
• Career Advancement: Many employers in the healthcare and emergency services fields require CPR certification as a prerequisite for employment. Having CPR certification can also make an individual more marketable and increase their chances of getting a job in these fields.
• Legal Protection: In some states and countries, Good Samaritan laws protect those who perform CPR in an emergency situation. However, these laws may not apply if the individual has not been trained and certified in CPR.
• Confidence: A CPR certification provides an individual with the knowledge and skills to respond in an emergency situation, giving them the confidence to take action and potentially save a life.
• Professional Development: CPR training and certification provides individuals with knowledge and skills that can be applied in many areas of their professional and personal life, such as risk management, emergency preparedness, and communication.
• Recognition: CPR certification is recognized by national and international.

How to become certified in BLS?

Here are the general steps to become certified in BLS (Basic Life Support)::

• Meet the eligibility requirements: Before you can become certified, you must meet the eligibility requirements set by the certifying organization. These requirements may include being at least a certain age, having a certain level of education, or being a healthcare professional.
• Register for a BLS training course: Once you meet the eligibility requirements, you can register for a BLS training course. These courses are usually offered by organizations such as the American Heart Association (AHA) or the American Red Cross, and can be taken in-person or online.
• Attend the training course: Attend the BLS training course, it usually includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. During the course, you will learn about the key concepts and techniques of BLS, including performing CPR and using an AED.
• Pass the written and skills test: After completing the training course, you will need to pass a written and skills test to demonstrate your proficiency in the BLS techniques. The written test may be a multiple-choice exam, while the skills test will require you to demonstrate your ability to perform CPR and other BLS techniques.
• Receive your certification card: Upon passing the written and skills test, you will receive your certification card. This card serves as proof that you are certified in BLS and is usually valid for 2 years.
• Renew your certification: BLS certification usually needs to be renewed every 2 years, you can renew it by taking a refresher course or taking the test again.

It’s worth noting that requirements may vary depending on the certifying organization, so be sure to check the specific requirements of the course you are taking.

What are the best BLS certifying organizations?

In the USA, there are several organizations that offer BLS (Basic Life Support) certification, including:

• American Heart Association (AHA): The AHA is one of the most widely recognized and respected organizations in the field of emergency cardiac care. They offer a wide range of BLS courses, including both in-person and online options.
• American Red Cross: The American Red Cross offers BLS certification courses that are recognized by healthcare organizations and employers nationwide. They offer both in-person and online options..
• National Safety Council (NSC): The NSC offers BLS certification courses that are widely recognized by employers and healthcare organizations. They offer both in-person and online options..
• Emergency Care and Safety Institute (ECSI): ECSI is an American-based certifying body that offers a variety of BLS courses which are widely recognized. They offer both in-person and online options.
• Medic First Aid International: Medic First Aid International offers BLS certification courses that are recognized by many employers and healthcare organizations. They offer both in-person and online options.
• American Safety & Health Institute (ASHI): ASHI offers BLS certification courses that are widely recognized and accepted by healthcare organizations and employers. They offer both in-person and online options.

It’s important to check the specific requirements of the course you are taking and the organization that is providing the training, as they may vary depending on the certifying organization. Also, check with your employer or any regulatory body you need to be certified by, as they may have a preference of certifying organization.

Is it worth becoming BLS certified?