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Confused About CPR vs BLS? Here's Your Columbus Cheat Sheet

 When emergencies happen, every second counts. Being able to quickly step in with lifesaving skills can mean the difference between life and death. That's why CPR and BLS certifications are so vitally important. However, understanding the difference between CPR and BLS can be confusing. This article will provide a handy cheat sheet for knowing when each is needed in Columbus.



What is CPR Certification?

CPR, or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, is an emergency procedure performed when someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped. CPR combines chest compressions to manually pump blood through the body with artificial ventilation to provide oxygen. CPR helps circulate oxygen and blood flow to the brain and other vital organs until advanced medical treatment can restore normal heart and lung function.

The American Heart Association categorizes CPR into three main types:

  1. Adult CPR - Performed on people aged 12 and up

  2. Child CPR - For children ages 1-12

  3. Infant CPR - For babies under 1 year old


CPR certification equips you with the skills to properly administer CPR in an emergency. Through hands-on instruction and training, a CPR certification course teaches:


  • How to perform effective chest compressions

  • Rescue breathing methods

  • Correct pacing and sequencing for CPR

  • Use of masks or shields for ventilation

  • Appropriate hand placement and body positioning

  • Considerations for using CPR on children and infants

CPR certification gives you the confidence to step in and potentially save a life when moments matter most. The techniques you learn in a CPR certification class adhere to the latest science-based guidelines for CPR established by the American Heart Association.

Why Get BLS Certified in Columbus?

BLS stands for Basic Life Support. While CPR focuses on just chest compressions and artificial breathing, a BLS certification course expands your abilities to respond in an emergency before advanced medical personnel arrive.


A BLS certification provides the standard skills needed by healthcare professionals and other personnel who may need to act as first responders. The BLS sequence includes:

  • Initial assessment

  • Activation of emergency response system

  • Early CPR when needed

  • Early defibrillation with an AED when available and appropriate

  • Basic airway management

  • Relief of foreign-body airway obstruction

BLS certification aims to optimize survival for victims in life-threatening situations through coordinated, team-based early response. Some key advantages of getting BLS certified include:


  • Recognizing various life-threatening emergencies

  • Effective team-based response principles

  • Importance of high-quality CPR

  • Use of an AED or automated external defibrillator

  • Bag-mask techniques for ventilation

  • Key differences in adult, child, and infant CPR


The BLS certification curriculum is created by the American Heart Association. BLS certification is standard for many healthcare professionals and is often required for healthcare students entering clinical practice.

Comparing Key Differences Between CPR and BLS

While both teach the core skills of CPR, here are some key differences between CPR and BLS certifications:

CPR Certification:

  • Focuses just on administering high-quality chest compressions and ventilations

  • Teaches how to deliver CPR to victims of all ages

  • Covers how to use masks or protective barriers for rescue breathing

  • Does not teach AED or defibrillator use

  • Ideal for non-medical professionals and community members

  • Typically lasts just a few hours and can be taken on its own

BLS Certification:

  • Covers the full sequence of responding in an emergency

  • Includes use of AEDs and defibrillators

  • Teaches coordinating responses as part of a team

  • Goes deeper into techniques like bag-mask ventilation

  • Geared towards healthcare providers and medical professionals

  • Requires prerequisite CPR certification

  • May last 6-8 hours and require some prep work

As you can see, while CPR focuses specifically on administering chest compressions and breathing to a victim, a BLS certification expands those skills to include using an AED, working with a team, and handling other aspects of an emergency response until EMS or medical personnel arrive.




CPR Columbus Offers AHA Certification Courses

Ready to get certified in Columbus? CPR Columbus provides American Heart Association certification courses for both CPR and BLS. Classes are available in a convenient online/hands-on or in-person format.


With AHA CPR certification from CPR Columbus, you gain the following benefits:


  • Nationally recognized certification

  • Training on the latest techniques and guidelines

  • Flexible online and in-person class options

  • Certification is valid for two years


Investing just a few hours in a CPR or BLS class can empower you to take action like a pro when faced with an emergency. Our skilled instructors walk you through all the steps using our practice manikins Anne and Brad. You'll gain confidence in your lifesaving skills through hands-on practice.


Don't wait until an emergency strikes. Get fully prepared by getting CPR and/or BLS certified with CPR Columbus today!

Review Key Differences Before Enrolling

Before signing up for a class, review the key differences between CPR and BLS covered in this article. Think about which certification aligns best with your goals and needs. As a healthcare provider, BLS is likely the optimal choice to have under your belt. But for many Columbus community members, having that CPR certification can make a real difference in those crucial minutes before paramedics arrive.


Ready to register for an upcoming class? You can conveniently view schedules and enrollment options on the CPR Columbus website. Or give us a call at 614-321-2094 with any questions you have or to register over the phone today.

Gain Lifesaving Knowledge with CPR Certification Columbus

Don't wait to get equipped with skills that can potentially help save lives in your community. A CPR certification empowers you to take action when every second counts. Sign up for a class with CPR Columbus and gain confidence you'll be ready when faced with an emergency.

Master Skills to Act Decisively in Emergencies with BLS Columbus

With BLS certification from CPR Columbus, you'll master the skills needed to help assess a scene, provide CPR, deliver effective ventilations, and use an AED when critical minutes matter. Gain the key techniques you need to know when acting as a first responder. Sign up today!
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