Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) Certification and Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification are the same course. The distinction lies in the course title, which may vary depending on the organization offering the certificate. At USCPR Online, we use the title, Basic Life Support certification because it is the most widely used term.
BCLS or BLS allows healthcare professionals to learn lifesaving techniques, including Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and other cardiovascular life support skills. The course also covers for infants, children, and adults.
BCLS Certification Requirements
BCLS Certification typically does not have strict prerequisites or eligibility requirements. However, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind:
1. BCLS Certification programs are primarily designed for healthcare professionals and individuals in medical fields, such as doctors, nurses, paramedics, EMTs, dentists, and pharmacists.
2. Most BCLS certification courses do not have a minimum age requirement. However, it is advisable to check with the specific training provider as they may have their guidelines.
3. Since BCLS certification courses involve lectures, assessments, and communication during practical exercises, a basic understanding of English is typically recommended to comprehend the course material and interact effectively.
4. Participants should be physically able to perform the required techniques, which may involve kneeling or pushing down on a person's chest during CPR. While physical fitness benefits BCLS certification training, adaptations can be made to accommodate individuals with certain limitations or disabilities.
Basic Cardiac Life Support Course Outline
The BCLS certification online course is built upon the latest emergency cardiovascular care (ECC/ILCOR) guidelines published by the AHA. This course teaches the latest BCLS techniques to address the most common workplace, community, and healthcare situations.
The study materials are designed to train you to respond to life-threatening emergencies. You will also learn lifesaving skills to feel confident in situations where immediate action can make all the difference.
The training materials for the BCLS certification class allow you to systematically review everything you will need to know for the certification exam.
Basic Cardiac Life Support Course sections include:
American Heart Association Guidelines: This section of the BLS certification course covers updates for CPR guidelines. An example of an update is the importance of high-quality chest compressions in survival.
Laws and Safety regarding CPR: This section explains the symptoms of a cardiac emergency, Good Samaritan laws, and the chain of survival. It underscores the importance of regular CPR renewal to ensure adherence to universal safety precautions during any life-threatening emergency.
CPR and Types of CPR: This section defines CPR and how Infant, Child, and Adult CPR are different. Furthermore, this section goes into detail about each type of CPR protocol. It also discusses the compression-only CPR protocol, which the American Heart Association recently implemented.
Conscious and Unconscious Choking: This section highlights conscious and unconscious choking in adult victims and its treatment, reinforcing the role of regular CPR renewal in maintaining readiness to respond to such emergencies.
Automated External Defibrillator (AED): This section explains AEDs and how to best use an automated external defibrillator.
Ventilation with a barrier device: This section will teach you how to provide artificial ventilations utilizing a bag valve mask Insertion and oral and nasal airway adjuncts.
After successful completion, you will be issued proof of certification stating that you passed the certification exam. You may download a PDF version of your certification card as proof of certification. Print this proof of certification until your official completion card arrives by mail.
Preparing for BCLS Certification Exam
The BCLS certification exam consists of 25 multiple-choice questions. If you do not pass the certification exam on your first attempt, you can retake it as often as needed. There are no restrictions on the number of retakes, and you will not encounter any payment pop-ups when retesting. This allows you to continue attempting the test until you achieve a passing score of 70% and successfully obtain your BCLS certification.
BCLS Certification Eligibility
Anyone may sign up for a Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) course to become certified. However, some courses may be tailored exclusively to employees of a specific health center or hospital, and the training fees may differ. BCLS courses can be taken through traditional classroom methods or online. The course provider should be recognized by the relevant governing bodies for a certificate to be valid. BCLS is most often presented to medical professionals and aides, but babysitters, nannies, and elderly companions may also attain the certificate to ensure proper care for those under their responsibility.
Online BCLS Provider Card
After successful completion of certification requirements, you may download a PDF version of your digital certificate as instant proof. Print this PDF certification card for use until your official completion card or BCLS provider card arrives by mail within 2-5 business days. The validity of BCLS certification typically lasts for two years
Maintaining BCLS Certification
To maintain the validity of your BCLS certification, you must renew it every 2 years. This involves taking BLS renewal classes to refresh your knowledge and skills. Renewing your initial certification demonstrates your commitment to proficiency in Basic Cardiac Life Support and preparedness for emergencies.
It's essential to keep track of your current certification expiration date and plan for renewal to ensure your certification remains valid. Training providers offer both in-person and online BLS renewal classes, allowing flexibility in scheduling. Staying current with your BCLS certification ensures you can confidently provide lifesaving assistance when needed.
