How to Get BLS Certification: A Step-by-Step Guide for Healthcare Providers

Earning your Basic Life Support (BLS) certification demonstrates your knowledge and skills in providing vital and often lifesaving care in critical situations. As a healthcare provider, gaining this credential ensures you have the training to perform high-quality CPR, use an AED, and relieve choking

Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, EMT, or other medical professional, getting BLS certified expands your capabilities to help save lives both in and out of the hospital. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire BLS certification process so you can gain this must-have qualification.

Overview of BLS Certification

BLS certification has been the standard for healthcare providers for decades It covers core skills like

• CPR for adults, children, and infants
• Using barrier devices for rescue breathing
• Operating an AED
• Relieving foreign body airway obstructions

The certification is awarded after passing an exam testing these competencies. It must be renewed every two years by taking a review course. BLS is a prerequisite for many medical professionals and demonstrates critical expertise.

Step 1: Pick a Certifying Organization

The two major organizations providing BLS certification are the American Heart Association (AHA) and American Red Cross. Both offer respected credentials.

Compare course content, format options, prices, and reputation at local healthcare facilities to decide which certification to pursue. Many employers accept both.

Step 2: Confirm You Meet Requirements

BLS has few prerequisites. You must:

• Hold a current healthcare provider level license if required for your profession
• Be able and willing to perform all physical skills like compressions

BLS is open to all healthcare workers and students entering the field.

Step 3: Select Your Course Format

BLS is offered online and in-person. Choose the format that fits your schedule and learning style:

Online:

• Self-paced learning
• Skills assessment session after

In-person:

• Classroom-based lecture and skills practice
• Offered on select dates

There’s no difference in certification earned. Go with your ideal format.

Step 4: Register and Prepare

Register for your selected course at least a month before your target certification date. Review the course learning materials and provider manual so you’re familiar with the content.

Brush up on:

• Assessing unresponsiveness
• Effective compression rates and depths
• Using bag valve masks and AEDs

Practice skills like chest compressions ahead of time.

Step 5: Take the BLS Course

Complete the online portion if taking a blended class. For in-person, attend the full session to receive instruction on all BLS protocols and interventions.

Actively participate by asking questions, practicing skills with the instructor’s feedback, and fully engaging with the material. Make the most of this learning opportunity.

Step 6: Pass the Certification Exam

At the end of the course, you’ll take a written exam and complete a skills evaluation. The exam covers:

• Assessing scenes and patients
• Rescue breathing
• Operating AEDs
• Coordinating teams

Bring your full focus. Promptly respond to exams and scenarios as they come up to demonstrate your abilities.

Step 7: Earn BLS Certification

With successful exam completion, you’ll receive your BLS certification documentation. This includes your digital certificate accessible through your account and physical wallet card.

Add your new credentials to your resume, workplace profile, and LinkedIn. Maintain the certification through timely renewal.

Maintaining Your BLS Certification

BLS certifications are valid for two years. To recertify:

• Retake the course up to 30 days before expiration
• Complete a shorter review course if still valid

Stay current on the latest protocols and keep your skills sharp through ongoing practice. Renew promptly to avoid any lapse in this must-have qualification.

Key Tips for Getting BLS Certified

Follow these tips for smooth sailing through the BLS certification process:

• Register early to lock in your preferred course date and format
• Obtain prerequisites like CPR masks and current licenses ahead of time
• Thoroughly review the course manual and materials multiple times
• Practice skills like compressions and bag valve masks regularly before the course
• Ask questions during your class to clarify anything you’re unsure about
• Stay calm during testing by breathing deeply and drawing on your preparation
• Take a review course to recertify before your current card expires
• Add credentials to professional profiles once certified

Gaining your BLS certification equips you with essential skills to improve patient outcomes in critical situations. Follow this step-by-step guide for healthcare providers to prepare for and earn this vital credential that demonstrates your dedication and abilities. You can achieve this important milestone in your medical career.