CPR & CPR First Aid Frequently Asked Questions

BLS stands for Basic Life Support. Although BLS courses are designed for healthcare providers, HeartSaver courses are intended for people who do not work in healthcare but require certification for their employment. Nurses or nursing students, CNAs, physical therapists, dentists, pharmacists, and other healthcare providers are examples of healthcare providers as well as those entering the healthcare field. Those needing an OSHA-approved course, daycare workers needing a state-approved course, or anyone interested in learning CPR are examples of those needing a Heartsaver CPR course. BLS focuses on the use of two rescuers doing CPR and utilizing a team-based approach when performing CPR on the patient.

However, HeartSaver is concentrated on resuscitation outcomes that can be achieved by a single rescuer. Besides providing a basic overview of CPR, BLS will also explain rescue breathing, using advanced airways, and how to use a bag-mask device, which is not covered in HeartSaver.