BLS (Basic Life Support) is the AHA's CPR course for healthcare professionals and students. It is faster-paced and more clinical than Heartsaver, with both a skills test and a written exam.
1. Arrival and overview
Check in and meet your instructor. Because BLS is for people who respond on the job, the pace assumes you are comfortable being hands-on quickly.
2. High-quality CPR
You drill high-quality compressions — correct rate, depth, and full recoil — for adults, children, and infants. Small errors that reduce blood flow are corrected on the spot.
3. Team dynamics and the BVM
Unlike Heartsaver, BLS emphasizes team-based resuscitation: switching compressors smoothly, clear communication, and using a bag-valve mask for ventilations. You also practice relief of choking and AED integration.
4. Testing
- Skills test: you demonstrate adult, child, and infant CPR plus AED use to AHA standards.
- Written exam: a short multiple-choice test confirms the knowledge behind the skills.
5. Your card
Pass both, and you receive an AHA BLS Provider card valid for two years. Many employers accept the eCard immediately.
Coming in for renewal?
If your BLS card is still current, ask about a shorter renewal session. See does CPR certification expire?
Not sure BLS is the course you need? Compare with Heartsaver.