Basic Life Support (BLS)
Be prepared to save lives—master the foundational skills of basic life support.
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Basic Life Support (BLS)
The AHA’s BLS (Basic Life Support) course teaches participants how to quickly recognize various life-threatening emergencies, perform high-quality chest compressions, provide effective ventilations, and use an AED early. The course content is based on the latest science and education from the American Heart Association Guidelines Update for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC).
Who Should Take this Course?
The AHA’s BLS Course is intended for healthcare providers and other personnel who must know how to perform CPR and basic cardiovascular life support skills in both in-facility and prehospital environments.
What Does this Course Teach?
High-Quality CPR
Learn how to perform high-quality CPR for adults, children, and infants.
AHA Chain of Survival
Understand the BLS components of the American Heart Association’s Chain of Survival.
Early AED Use
Recognize the importance of early defibrillation using an AED.
Effective Ventilations
Provide proper ventilations using a barrier device.
Team Dynamics
Understand the role of teamwork in multirescuer resuscitation and how to perform effectively as a team member.
Choking Relief
Learn how to relieve foreign-body airway obstruction (choking) in adults and infants.
Course Completion Card
After successfully completing all course requirements, participants will receive a BLS Provider Course Completion Card, valid for two years.
Continuing Education Credits
Depending on which BLS course option you choose, CE/CME may be available for your profession.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should take this course?
The AHA BLS course is designed for healthcare professionals and those in emergency response roles, such as nurses, doctors, EMTs, and medical students.
What does this course cover?
It covers high-quality CPR for adults, children, and infants, AED use, choking relief, and team dynamics in resuscitation.
Is there a written test for BLS certification?
Yes, the course includes a written exam and a hands-on skills assessment to ensure competency.
How long does BLS certification last?
AHA BLS certification is valid for two years.
Can I take the BLS course online?
Yes, AHA offers a blended learning option where you complete an online portion and then attend an in-person skills session.
How long does the BLS class take?
The in-person class typically takes about 4 hours, depending on the student’s familiarity with the material.
What happens if I fail the skills test?
You will have the opportunity to practice and retake the skills test until you demonstrate proficiency.