At OC Safety, we are always getting questions about the difference between Basic Life Support (BLS) and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). We offer both BLS certification and CPR certification classes, and that’s why we want to clear up the confusion. Our OC Safety team wants to ensure that you fully understand the details of each training certification and who should take either course. Continue reading to learn more about BLS certification and CPR certification.
What Is CPR?
CPR is cardiopulmonary resuscitation or the act of compressing an individual’s chest in order to circulate blood from the heart to the brain and back to the heart again. CPR is done to oxygenate the brain. CPR is administered when an individual is experiencing cardiac arrest, and their heart has stopped circulating blood. CPR is necessary or recommended for the following positions and jobs:
- Security Officials
- Airline Personnel
- Teachers & Day Care Workers
- Camp Counselors & Nature Guides
- Fitness Trainers
- Babysitters
- New Parents
CPR is also a great skill to have for the average person. You never know when you may need to assist someone during cardiac arrest, and you could be the one to save their life.
What Is BLS?
BLS or basic life support is sometimes confused with CPR because they are quite similar. The most significant difference between the two life-saving skills is that BLS involves a higher level of training with a more scientific-based approach. With a BLS certification class you will learn CPR (for one rescuer and two rescuers), how to use an AED (automated external defibrillator), and to relieve choking. OC Safety BLS classes are recommended for the following professionals:
- Physicians, nurses and paramedics
- Emergency medical technicians
- Respiratory, physical & occupational therapists
- Physician assistants, residents or fellows
- Medical or nursing students
- Aides and other healthcare professionals
- Police officers, firefighters
- Anyone whose work exposes them to possible emergency situations
Typically, BLS is required for any healthcare provider position, and CPR certification is not enough.
Which Is Better?
Neither BLS or CPR is better. It truly depends on your reasons for taking the certification courses. As previously stated, a specific job may require one certification over the other. If you are unsure which OC Safety certification class to take, please talk to our team. We will discuss all aspects of both types and your reasons for taking the course.
Contact OC Safety For Your Safety Training Certifications!
If you are interested in a safety training certification course, please contact OC Safety. Of course, we offer both BLS certifications and CPR certifications, but we offer so much more than that! We want to prepare you for any emergency and give you the tools to save another person’s life. Contact OC Safety to schedule your next CPR class or BLS class.
We look forward to hearing from you soon!