What does BLS training include?

The Red Cross Resuscitation Suite is evidence-based and founded on ILCOR’s scientific guidelines making this program compliant with all U.S. guidelines for healthcare resuscitation programs. This program is also reviewed under the guidance of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council - a panel of nationally recognized experts from a wide range of scientific, medical, and academic disciplines. They ensure the information provided meets or exceeds local, state  and/or national standards.

Courses are specifically developed for healthcare professionals to gain extensive knowledge and experience in the following:

  • Rapid Assessment and Visual Survey
    Learn standard techniques in emergencies, such as performing a visual survey and checking for responsiveness.
  • CPR/AED for Adults, Children and Infants
    Learn to recognize and care for a wide range of first aid, breathing and cardiac emergencies.
  • Obstructed Airways
    Learn to recognize when a patient has obstructed airways and what to do to provide effective care.
  • Opioid Overdoses
    Learn how to check for the signs of an opioid overdose, and how to give the patient naloxone using different products.
  • Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Communication and Teamwork
    Working with a team in emergency scenarios is critical. Learn how to do so productively.
  • The Emergency Medical Services System
    Learn EMS-specific techniques, including performing primary assessments, CPR, AED use and more.
  • Legal Considerations
    Understand the legal rights as a healthcare professional, such as the duty to act, standard of care, confidentiality and more.
  • Precautions
    Gain insight into what to look out for and what can go wrong when performing care in life-threatening scenarios.

Does BLS training include first aid?

BLS is specifically designed for healthcare professionals, including nurses, physicians, EMS professionals, and other healthcare and public safety personnel who have medical backgrounds. The Resuscitation Suite covers CPR and what to do in emergency scenarios, but doesn't review minor conditions where First Aid would be necessary, such as stitches.

Is BLS the same as CPR?

BLS training covers CPR, but goes beyond a cardiac focus, making the program more unique and robust. CPR is the foundation of workplace safety training, and the BLS courses meet competency verification, education, credentialing and privileging requirements.

Ready to speak with an advisor?

Connect with a HealthStream advisor to discover how you can continue to drive quality improvement in resuscitation training while reducing program costs.

Get in Touch