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Jomar Rodriguez

BLS is the foundation for saving lives after cardiac arrest. The AHA’s BLS Course has been updated to reflect new science in the 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines Update for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care. This video-based, Instructor-led course teaches both single-rescuer and team basic life support skills for application in both in-facility and prehospital settings.

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BLS is the foundation for saving lives after cardiac arrest. The AHA’s BLS Course has been updated to reflect new science in the 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines Update for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care. This video-based, Instructor-led course teaches both single-rescuer and team basic life support skills for application in both in-facility and prehospital settings.

The 2020 Guidelines are a comprehensive revision of the AHA’s guidelines for adult resuscitation education science, and systems of care topics. They have been developed for resuscitation providers and AHA instructors to focus on the resuscitation science and guidelines recommendations that are most significant or controversial, or those that will result in changes in resuscitation training and practice, and to provide the rationale for the recommendations.

Survival after cardiac arrest requires an integrated system of people, training, equipment, and organizations. Willing bystanders, emergency service telecommunicators, and BLS providers working within EMS systems all contribute to successful resuscitation from OHCA. Within hospitals, the work of physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, and other professionals supports resuscitation outcomes. Successful resuscitation also depends on the contributions of equipment manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, resuscitation instructors, guidelines developers, and many others. Long-term survivorship requires support from family and professional caregivers, including experts in cognitive, physical, and psychological rehabilitation and recovery. A systems-wide commitment to quality improvement at every level of care is essential to achieving successful outcomes.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Importance of high-quality cpr and its impact on survival
  • Application of the steps of the chain of survival
  • Signs of someone needing cpr
  • High-quality cpr skills acquisition for adults
  • Effective ventilations
  • Multirescuer resuscitation and skill acquisition

Syllabus

Introduction
Welcome
Adult Basic Life Support (BLS)
Part 1-2: Chain Of Survival (IHCA and OHCA)
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Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches single-rescuer and team basic life support skills, which are applicable in both in-facility and prehospital settings
Updated to reflect new science in the 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines Update for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care
Explores the Chain of Survival, which emphasizes the importance of early recognition and response in cardiac arrest cases
Focuses on high-quality CPR skills acquisition for adults, which is a core competency for healthcare providers
Covers effective ventilation techniques, which are essential for providing oxygenation during resuscitation efforts
Examines multirescuer resuscitation, which is crucial for coordinating efforts and improving outcomes in complex scenarios

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive adult basic life support training

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in Adult Basic Life Support (BLS), aligning with the latest 2020 AHA Guidelines. Many appreciate the clear and concise explanations and the high-quality video demonstrations, which are particularly helpful for visualizing techniques like chest compressions and bag-mask ventilation. Students find the course practical and useful, especially for those needing a refresher or preparing for in-person certifications. The structure, including segments on the Chain of Survival and BLS Assessment, is seen as well-organized.
Focuses on fundamentals, may lack depth.
"This is definitely a basic course, good for beginners or refreshers, but not in-depth enough for advanced providers."
"While comprehensive for BLS basics, it doesn't delve into more complex resuscitation scenarios."
"I felt it was a good overview, but it might be too fundamental for someone looking for advanced life support training."
"It covers the essential steps well, but don't expect detailed physiology or complex case studies."
Excellent for updating existing knowledge.
"This course served as a fantastic refresher on BLS protocols. It brought me up to speed with the new guidelines."
"As someone who has taken BLS before, this was a perfect way to review and update my skills and knowledge."
"Great for keeping my BLS certification knowledge current without needing a full in-person course just yet."
"I used it as a quick and efficient way to refresh my BLS knowledge before recertification."
Provides practical skills foundation.
"I feel much more prepared to act in an emergency situation after taking this course."
"The skills taught here are directly applicable to real-life scenarios and professional requirements."
"It gives you the foundational knowledge needed before potentially taking a hands-on practical session."
"This course provides the essential theoretical background for performing BLS."
Instructions are easy to follow.
"The content is explained very clearly and concisely, making complex procedures easy to grasp."
"Everything was presented in a straightforward way, easy to understand even for someone without prior medical training."
"I appreciated how direct and to-the-point the lessons were. No unnecessary jargon."
"The explanations are clear and the pace is just right for absorbing the information."
Visual aids are practical and clear.
"The video demonstrations for skills like compressions and ventilation were incredibly helpful for visualizing the steps."
"Seeing the techniques performed in the videos really solidified my understanding."
"The demos were practical and well-filmed, showing exactly what to do."
"I found the video segments on practice demonstrations particularly valuable."
Covers latest 2020 AHA Guidelines.
"It was great to get the most up-to-date info on the 2020 AHA Guidelines. Important for my profession."
"The course materials reflect the current 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines, which is essential."
"I found this course to be completely aligned with the latest standards set by the AHA for BLS."
"It's crucial that BLS training is current, and this course delivered on the 2020 guidelines."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in First Aid: Basic Life Support (BLS) for Adult with these activities:
Review Basic Anatomy and Physiology
Reviewing basic anatomy and physiology will help you better understand how CPR and BLS techniques support vital organ function during cardiac arrest.
Browse courses on Cardiovascular System
Show steps
  • Review diagrams of the heart and lungs.
  • Study the mechanics of breathing and circulation.
  • Take a practice quiz on key anatomical structures.
Read 'CPR and Basic Life Support: An Illustrated Training Manual'
Reading this book will provide a solid foundation in CPR and BLS techniques, supplementing the course material with detailed explanations and visuals.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on adult CPR and airway management.
  • Review the illustrations and practice the techniques.
  • Take notes on key concepts and procedures.
Practice Chest Compressions on a Manikin
Practicing chest compressions on a manikin will help you develop the muscle memory and technique needed to perform effective CPR.
Show steps
  • Set up a CPR manikin on a flat surface.
  • Practice chest compressions for 2 minutes, focusing on rate and depth.
  • Get feedback from a certified instructor or experienced peer.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in a BLS Skills Practice Session with Peers
Practicing BLS skills with peers will provide opportunities to receive feedback, refine your technique, and build confidence.
Show steps
  • Organize a practice session with classmates or colleagues.
  • Take turns performing CPR and providing feedback.
  • Focus on improving chest compression rate, depth, and recoil.
Create a BLS Skills Checklist
Creating a BLS skills checklist will help you organize and internalize the steps involved in performing basic life support.
Show steps
  • List all the steps involved in BLS for adults.
  • Organize the steps in a logical sequence.
  • Add a section for assessing performance and identifying areas for improvement.
Volunteer at a Community Health Fair
Volunteering at a health fair will provide opportunities to practice BLS skills in a real-world setting and educate others about the importance of CPR.
Show steps
  • Contact local organizations to find health fair opportunities.
  • Offer to demonstrate CPR techniques and answer questions.
  • Provide information about BLS courses and resources.
Study 'American Heart Association Handbook of Emergency Cardiovascular Care for Healthcare Providers'
Studying this handbook will provide a deeper understanding of emergency cardiovascular care and the latest AHA guidelines.
Show steps
  • Review the sections on adult CPR and advanced life support.
  • Focus on the algorithms and protocols for managing cardiac arrest.
  • Take notes on key changes and updates in the guidelines.

Career center

Learners who complete First Aid: Basic Life Support (BLS) for Adult will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Emergency Medical Technician
As an Emergency Medical Technician, you are often the first medical professional on the scene, providing immediate care to those in need. This role requires a deep understanding of basic life support techniques. This First Aid: Basic Life Support course is directly relevant to the skills you need, as it focuses on high-quality CPR, effective ventilations, and multirescuer resuscitation, aligning with the critical interventions performed by an Emergency Medical Technician in both prehospital and in-facility settings. You will learn about the importance of CPR and the steps of the Chain of Survival, all invaluable in the field.
Paramedic
Paramedics are advanced medical professionals who respond to emergencies and provide critical care in prehospital settings. BLS forms the foundation of all advanced life support interventions. This First Aid: Basic Life Support course is directly aligned with the skills you need as a Paramedic. It covers essential topics, such as high-quality CPR for adults, effective ventilation techniques, and multirescuer resuscitation scenarios. The course's emphasis on the Chain of Survival reinforces the systematic approach necessary for effective emergency response. In addition, the course addresses the importance of continuous quality improvement in cardiac arrest outcomes, a crucial aspect of paramedic training and practice.
Lifeguard
Lifeguards are responsible for ensuring the safety of individuals at swimming pools, beaches, and other aquatic environments. They need skills in water rescue and basic life support. This First Aid: Basic Life Support course is particularly relevant, as it teaches high-quality CPR skills for adults, effective ventilation techniques, and the importance of the Chain of Survival, all critical in a water rescue scenario. The course's emphasis on assessing the situation and performing chest compressions is essential for providing immediate care to someone in distress, making you a more competent and prepared lifeguard.
Emergency Room Technician
Emergency Room Technicians assist medical staff in the emergency department by providing basic patient care and support. As an Emergency Room Technician, a solid foundation in BLS techniques is essential. The First Aid: Basic Life Support course directly supports the skills you need. You will focus on high-quality CPR, effective ventilations, and multirescuer resuscitation skills for adults, relevant in a fast-paced emergency room environment. The course emphasizes the importance of CPR and the application of the Chain of Survival and equips you to respond effectively in critical situations.
Firefighter
Firefighters respond to various emergencies, including fires, medical incidents, and accidents. They often provide initial medical care. This First Aid: Basic Life Support course is extremely valuable. It focuses on high-quality CPR for adults, effective ventilation, and multirescuer resuscitation, skills you need on the job. The course emphasizes the importance of the Chain of Survival, giving you a systematic approach to emergency response. By understanding the BLS assessment and practicing chest compression techniques, you enhance your ability to provide immediate and effective assistance at the scene.
Personal Trainer
Personal Trainers create exercise programs for clients. They need to be prepared to handle many issues, including medical emergencies. This First Aid: Basic Life Support course is extremely useful. It focuses on high-quality CPR for adults, effective ventilation, and multirescuer resuscitation, skills one might need to handle an emergency. The course emphasizes the importance of the Chain of Survival, and gives a systematic approach to emergency response.
Athletic Trainer
Athletic Trainers specialize in preventing and treating injuries among athletes. They often work on the sidelines of sporting events, where the ability to respond to medical emergencies is crucial. This First Aid: Basic Life Support course is extremely relevant, as it teaches high-quality CPR skills for adults, effective ventilation techniques, and multirescuer resuscitation. Understanding the Chain of Survival and being able to assess a situation quickly are essential to your success in this role. You will be better equipped to handle sudden cardiac arrest or other medical crises that could occur during athletic activities.
School Nurse
School Nurses provide health services to students, including administering medication, treating injuries, and responding to medical emergencies. Because they are often the first responder in a school setting, BLS skills are essential. This First Aid: Basic Life Support course directly relates to the skills you need, as it focuses on high-quality CPR, effective ventilations, and understanding the Chain of Survival. This training prepares you to respond effectively to cardiac arrest or other medical emergencies that students might experience.
Physician Assistant
Physician Assistants practice medicine under the supervision of a physician, providing a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic services. Physician Assistants require competence in BLS. This course in First Aid: Basic Life Support is directly relevant. You will learn about high-quality CPR, effective ventilation techniques, and multirescuer resuscitation skills. The course emphasizes the importance of CPR, the Chain of Survival, and continuous quality improvement in cardiac arrest outcomes.
Registered Nurse
Registered Nurses provide direct patient care, administer medications, and monitor patient conditions. High-quality BLS skills are essential for Registered Nurses, particularly in critical care and emergency settings. Taking this First Aid: Basic Life Support course helps build a foundation in adult basic life support. It emphasizes the importance of CPR and the application of the Chain of Survival. These skills are essential to a nurse's work in life-threatening situations. You will learn effective ventilation techniques and how to participate in multirescuer resuscitation efforts, common scenarios you might encounter.
Medical Assistant
Medical Assistants support physicians and nurses in clinical settings by performing administrative and clinical tasks. While their role is broad, BLS skills are valuable, especially in emergency situations. This First Aid: Basic Life Support course may be useful, as it covers essential BLS concepts, including high-quality CPR and the Chain of Survival. This training equips you with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively in situations where a patient requires immediate life support. You will learn how to assess a patient's condition, perform chest compressions, and provide ventilations, contributing to the healthcare team's ability to provide life-saving interventions.
Phлеbотоmіѕt
Phлеbотоmіѕts draw blood for tests, transfusions, research, or blood donations. In this role, where you interact directly with patients, basic knowledge of emergency response may be valuable in responding to unexpected medical events. This First Aid: Basic Life Support course may be useful in providing essential skills in these emergency situations. It covers the necessary topics, such as how to perform CPR, utilize effective ventilation techniques, and carry out the steps in the Chain of Survival. These skills may allow you to react quickly and effectively when faced with situations such as fainting or cardiac arrest.
Dental Assistant
Dental Assistants support dentists by preparing patients for treatment, assisting during procedures, and providing patient education. While not always required, BLS certification is increasingly valued and sometimes mandated in dental practices due to potential medical emergencies. This First Aid: Basic Life Support course may be useful by equipping you with the skills to respond effectively to cardiac arrest or other life-threatening situations that could occur in the dental office. The course's focus on CPR and effective ventilations will allow you to contribute to patient safety.
Substance Abuse Counselor
Substance Abuse Counselors help individuals overcome addictions. In this role, having knowledge of emergency response may be valuable in responding to unexpected medical events. This First Aid: Basic Life Support course may be useful in providing essential skills in these emergency situations. It covers the necessary topics, such as how to perform CPR, utilize effective ventilation techniques, and carry out the steps in the Chain of Survival. These skills may allow you to react quickly and effectively when faced with situations such as drug overdose.
Medical Scribe
Medical Scribes assist physicians and other healthcare providers by documenting patient encounters in real-time. While primarily an administrative role, being able to assist in emergencies is helpful. This First Aid: Basic Life Support course may be useful in providing skills in these emergency situations. It covers how to perform CPR, utilize effective ventilation techniques, and carry out the steps in the Chain of Survival. These skills may allow you to react quickly and effectively when faced with unexpected events.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in First Aid: Basic Life Support (BLS) for Adult.
This handbook is an essential resource for healthcare providers involved in emergency cardiovascular care. It provides the latest guidelines and recommendations for CPR, advanced life support, and other critical interventions. useful reference tool for staying up-to-date on best practices and ensuring optimal patient outcomes. It adds more depth to the existing course.
Provides a comprehensive overview of CPR and BLS techniques, with detailed illustrations and step-by-step instructions. It serves as an excellent reference guide for both beginners and experienced healthcare professionals. The book covers adult, child, and infant CPR, as well as airway management and other essential life-saving skills. It is commonly used as a textbook in BLS courses.

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