BLS

Basic Life Support (BLS)

Basic Life Support (BLS) refers to a level of medical care which is used for victims of life-threatening illnesses or injuries until they can be given full medical care at a hospital. It can be provided by trained medical personnel, including emergency medical technicians (EMTs), paramedics, and by qualified bystanders.

Components of BLS

BLS generally includes the following components:

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
• Automated external defibrillator (AED) usage
• Airway management
• Rescue breathing

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving technique that is useful in many emergencies, including a heart attack or near drowning, in which someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped. CPR involves chest compressions and artificial ventilation.

Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a portable device that checks the heart rhythm and can send an electric shock to the heart to try to restore a normal rhythm. AEDs are used to treat sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).

Airway Management

Airway management is a set of medical procedures performed to prevent and relieve airway obstruction. This can include techniques such as the Heimlich maneuver, the use of airway adjuncts like oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal airways, and advanced procedures like endotracheal intubation.

Rescue Breathing

Rescue breathing is a technique used to provide breaths to a person who is not breathing or not breathing adequately. It is a critical component of CPR and is often performed in conjunction with chest compressions.

Training and Certification

BLS training and certification are typically required for healthcare providers and emergency responders. Training programs are offered by various organizations, including the American Heart Association (AHA) and the Red Cross.

Importance of BLS

BLS is crucial because it can sustain life until more advanced medical care can be provided. It is often the first step in the chain of survival for victims of cardiac arrest, respiratory arrest, and other life-threatening conditions.

Related Pages

• Advanced Cardiac Life Support
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support
• First aid
• Emergency medical services
• Resuscitation