EMS Education - Are You BLS Certified?

Are you a pre-hospital, in-healthcare or care facility professional, then it is likely you are required to maintain certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) through the American Heart Association (AHA). 

However, BLS certification is not just a regulatory requirement to remain in good standing with  an employer, it is a critical asset and an occupational necessity that ensures you can perform your job effectively.

Why is BLS Certification Important?

The knowledge and skills associated with being BLS certified means you are prepared to respond to life-threatening emergencies involving cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, and choking incidents across adult to infant populations.

Also, beyond enhancing your professional skills, BLS certification empowers you to be a valuable resource for your family, community, and the patients you serve.

What Does an AHA BLS Course Cover?

The American Heart Association BLS course covers a wide range of life-saving techniques, including:

• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Safe & Effective Automated External Defibrillator (AED) use.
• Bag-Valve Mask (BVM) Ventilations
• Choking & Airway Obstruction Management
• Rescue Breathing
• And much more!

Who Needs BLS Certification?

All healthcare providers in patient-facing roles - whether in a hospital or pre-hospital setting - are required to hold a valid BLS certification card. 

This includes:

• Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)
• Paramedics 
• Registered Nurses (RNs)
• Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs)
• Medical Doctors (MDs)
• Firefighters & Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs)

Who Should I Train With?

Choosing the right BLS certification course is essential to gaining the confidence and skills needed to respond to life-threatening emergencies. Look for a program that offers small class sizes to maximize hands-on learning and individualized instruction.

Experienced instructors with real-world expertise can provide valuable insights, ensuring that every student leaves feeling fully competent in their abilities.

Investing in quality training means staying certified, staying prepared, and continuing to make a difference in the lives of those you serve.

Conclusion

BLS certification is more than just a credential - it is a vital skill set that can mean the difference between life and death in critical situations.

Whether you are an EMT, nurse, physician, or first responder, staying up to date with your BLS training ensures you are always prepared to act swiftly and effectively when every second counts.

By maintaining your AHA BLS certification, you contribute to a safer workplace, enhance patient outcomes, and reinforce your commitment to providing quality care.

If your certification is nearing expiration or you have yet to obtain it, consider enrolling in a BLS course today. Your knowledge and readiness could save a life.

Recommended CPR Training Providers: 

Bethesda, Wales, UK: Active First Aid

Rawlins, Wyoming, USA: Brian Eveleth, DTAC LLC

Littleton, Colorado, USA: Colorado Cardiac CPR

International: Crossing Latitudes