BLS courses are available for the general public, health care providers, and those interested in becoming instructors. Each course provides varying levels of training that enable participants to act as first responders and provide emergency care to someone who may have suffered a heart attack or stroke. Students also learn how to assist victims in the event of a choking emergency. Many community locations offer courses taught by certified instructors.
The American Heart Association creates an entry-level BLS course for people with little or no medical training. Individuals may complete the course in a single session, which lasts approximately four hours. Those who are registered for the course are usually required to purchase an instruction manual ahead of time. Each course explains the fundamentals of cardiopulmonary anatomy and function, as well as the signs and symptoms of heart attacks and strokes. Students are also taught how to dislodge foreign objects that are causing choking.
Students in a BLS course learn how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by providing breathing support and maintaining circulation through lecture, demonstration, and role-playing. Each class teaches students how to perform pre-hospital care on adults, children, and infants using mannequins in the form of one- or two-person rescue maneuvers. In most cases, the instruction manual also includes information on how to maintain heart health. Students demonstrate skills and complete a multiple-choice quiz to receive a course completion card after receiving instruction.
As part of their professional licensing requirements, health care providers and certain rescue personnel must maintain their BLS certifications. This level of CPR training usually results in a one- or two-year certification. BLS training for health care providers usually consists of one or two four-hour sessions with instruction tailored to those with a medical background. Students learn the function and operation of an automated external defibrillator, also known as an AED, in addition to pre-hospital care. Students receive a certification card after demonstrating acquired skills through a physical demonstration and a multiple-choice quiz.
Those who want to teach BLS courses usually need to get a letter of recommendation first. Individuals typically complete a core instructor’s class online, complete the class at home using course materials, or attend a class in a traditional classroom setting after receiving the endorsement. Future instructors receive additional training in a specific discipline, such as basic life support, heart saver, advanced cardiovascular support, or pediatric advanced life support, after completing the core courses. Individuals who successfully complete all course requirements can conduct a BLS course under the supervision of a certified instructor.