Basic Life Support (BLS)
Who is this qualification for?
The qualification is recommended for first-aiders in the workplace who have access to a defibrillator, and will give them the understanding that cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillation form an essential part of the chain of survival.
The Highfield Level 2 Award in Basic Life Support and Safe Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (RQF) has been developed by Highfield’s leading experts to help learners wanting to develop their knowledge and skills in basic life support.
Having the knowledge and skills to deliver basic life support, and particularly how to safely and effectively use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), is an important part of providing first aid coverage in the workplace.
Furthermore, the topics covered are regarded by Skills for Health as being important in maintaining good practice in the safe, prompt and effective administration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and automated external defibrillation.
Course Overview
The Basic Life Support (BLS) training course is an essential program designed to teach individuals how to provide immediate care to an injured or ill person until professional medical services arrive. This course is suitable for healthcare providers, emergency responders, and the general public who wish to be equipped with crucial life-saving skills.
Course Content
To complete this Basic Life Support qualification learners should expect to undertake 7 hours of learning, typically over one day, with a minimum contact time of 6 hours.
- Be able to manage an unresponsive casualty who is breathing normally
- Be able to manage an unresponsive casualty who is not breathing normally
- Know how to safely use an automated external defibrillator
- Be able to safely use an automated external defibrillator
The Basic Life Support (BLS) course is typically assessed through a combination of practical and theoretical evaluations. Here’s how the assessment usually works:
Practical Assessment:
Participants must demonstrate their ability to perform CPR and use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) effectively on training mannequins. They are observed and evaluated on their technique, including the correct positioning of hands, depth and rate of compressions, and proper use of the AED.
Written Test:
Alongside practical skills, a written examination is often required to assess knowledge of the procedures and theory taught during the course. This might include multiple-choice questions or true/false statements covering topics such as the signs of life-threatening emergencies, the steps of CPR, and the legal aspects of providing aid.
Scenario-Based Assessments:
In some courses, participants may also be tested in simulated emergency scenarios where they must apply their skills in a controlled but realistic context. This tests their ability to react appropriately and perform under pressure.
In some courses, participants may also be tested in simulated emergency scenarios where they must apply their skills in a controlled but realistic context. This tests their ability to react appropriately and perform under pressure.
The qualification means learners should be able to safely and effectively use an automated external defibrillation machine for 3 years, after which they should re-sit the qualification
Upon successful completion of a Basic Life Support (BLS) training course, participants are awarded a Basic Life Support certificate. This certification serves as proof that the individual has been trained to provide BLS in emergency situations, focusing on maintaining a person's airway, breathing, and circulation without auxiliary equipment. Here are some important details about the BLS certificate:
Validity:
Typically, a BLS certificate is valid for two years. This period ensures that individuals regularly refresh their skills to stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and guidelines in life support.
Renewal:
To keep the certification active, holders must undertake a renewal course before the expiration of their current certificate. This refresher training helps to reinforce skills and update the practitioner on any changes in protocols or new practices.
Recognition:
The BLS certificate is recognized by healthcare providers and many other organizations that require their staff to be trained in basic life support techniques. It is often a requirement for healthcare professionals, including nurses, doctors, and emergency medical technicians.
Importance:
The certification is essential for ensuring that the certificate holder is capable of performing critical life support measures in emergency situations, which can significantly improve the survival chances of patients experiencing cardiac or respiratory emergencies.
The BLS certificate not only validates the individual's capabilities in providing basic emergency care but also enhances their ability to contribute effectively during critical situations in both healthcare settings and the wider community.
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