Basic Life Support Certification
Program Coming Soon
We are developing a comprehensive Basic Life Support (BLS) certification program designed specifically for healthcare professionals in assisted living and memory care settings. Check back soon for updates on class schedules and registration.
A Basic Life Support (BLS) course is designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to respond to life-threatening emergencies, particularly those involving respiratory or cardiac arrest, choking, or other sudden health crises. The course emphasizes hands-on practice and a clear understanding of the basic interventions that can be applied to sustain life until professional help arrives.
Key Components of the BLS Class
1. Chest Compressions (CPR)
Chest compressions are vital for sustaining blood flow when someone's heart has ceased. The aim is to deliver oxygenated blood to the brain and essential organs.
For Adults:
- • Compression depth: at least 2 inches (5 cm)
- • Rate: 100-120 compressions per minute
- • Allow full chest recoil between compressions
- • Continue until help arrives
For Infants (Under 1 year):
- • Compression depth: about 1.5 inches (4 cm)
- • Use two fingers below nipple line
- • Rate: 100-120 compressions per minute
- • 30:2 compression-to-ventilation ratio
2. Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Use
An AED is a portable device that checks the heart's rhythm and can deliver a shock to restart the heart if required.
Steps to Use an AED:
- Turn on the AED and follow audio/visual instructions
- Apply pads to bare skin (upper right chest and lower left side)
- Allow AED to analyze heart rhythm (ensure no one is touching the person)
- Deliver shock if advised by the device
- Resume CPR immediately after shock delivery
3. Abdominal Thrusts for Choking
Abdominal thrusts are used when someone is choking and unable to breathe or speak due to a blocked airway.
For Adults:
Stand behind the person, wrap arms around waist, make a fist above navel, and perform quick inward and upward thrusts.
For Infants:
Alternate between five back slaps and five chest thrusts until object is expelled or infant starts breathing.
Why BLS Certification Matters
In healthcare settings, especially those serving elderly and vulnerable populations, having staff trained in Basic Life Support can mean the difference between life and death. BLS certification ensures that your team is prepared to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations, providing critical care while waiting for advanced medical support.
Our upcoming BLS program will combine classroom instruction with extensive hands-on practice, ensuring that participants develop both the knowledge and the confidence to perform life-saving interventions when seconds count.