Different techniques need to be applied at different times to save lives. Two terms are most frequently used among people, namely BLS and CPR. But what do each of these means, and what is the difference between them? Let's break it down in simple terms for you:
CPR: Stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. It is a technique used when someone's heart stops or they stop breathing. CPR helps in maintaining the blood flow to the brain and other required organs until professionals come to provide assistance.
Anyone can be taught CPR. You do not have to be a healthcare provider.
CPR consists of compressions performed on the chest and rescue breaths. This may help the individual from becoming completely unconscious or protect from any complication which might lead to fatal consequences.
If you locate a victim who has lost consciousness and is unresponsive with no signs of breathing, begin CPR at once.
CPR training is a must. It teaches one proper technique and proper ways of performing CPR. Many organizations offer CPR training, including the Indian RED.Health Cross Society or city health departments or organisations like RED.Health You can even learn through online courses if you prefer studying at home.
BLS stands for Basic Life Support. It is one level more advanced than CPR, a step above in terms of care given. BLS is widely taught to healthcare professionals and first responders, but anyone can learn it if they have a specific interest.
Note: BLS covers CPR but includes additional skills.
The recipients are generally healthcare professionals, emergency responders, and individuals who may find themselves in a situation where they can administer advanced care.
BLS encompasses CPR and the application of an Automated External Defibrillator, which can restore a shock to a normal cardiac rhythm.
Apply BLS in cases of emergencies involving adults, children, and infants with onset of cardiac arrest symptoms.
While BLS training is usually professionals-only, the majority of courses are open to the public. Knowing BLS can help you feel more confident in a crisis. It allows you to know exactly how to use an AED and how to perform great CPR.
As we know both terms now, let's point out the top differences:
CPR is universal. BLS is a special course with healthcare providers and responders as its primary target group.
CPR mostly comprises chest compressions and rescue breaths. BLS contains CPR training combined with other techniques, including the employment of an AED.
Courses for CPR tend to be shorter courses, while the classes for BLS might take the entire day.
Knowing CPR and BLS can actually save a life. To healthcare practitioners, BLS training is very important, though not all individuals in the non-medical field can have a certain knowledge of CPR. So, imagine a god forbidden situation, you are visiting a family gathering when suddenly, someone just collapses. Knowing how to do CPR might help save a person's life by keeping that person still until the ambulance has arrived. That is why first aid and CPR training is crucial for everybody.
CPR and BLS both have guidelines on how they should be executed properly. These are some simple tips:
Panic easily overtakes you, but staying calm will help you think straight.
Tap the person, shout. If they're unresponsive, call for assistance.
If the victim is not breathing, compress the chest. Act with force and speed in the middle of the chest.
An AED available should be applied as soon as possible. Follow all voice prompts from the AED.
Continue doing CPR or any BLS steps till professional help arrives or the victim shows signs of living.
Every second counts in an emergency. Knowing when to request help is essential. When the victim is unresponsive or not breathing, emergency services should be called at once. Many places now offer online booking for ambulances that can make getting a lot of help much faster.
Online ambulance booking can hurry things along. One can provide vital information on where to locate while another start administering CPR. This often saves precious minutes, which can be a difference in a life-or-death situation.
It is essential for any individual interested in emergency care to understand what distinguishes BLS from CPR. Both of these are lifesavers, but their purpose and audience are different.
No matter whether you learn CPR or take a BLS course, you are making the right decision because you will be ready to take appropriate action when needed. Don't wait. There's nothing wrong with seeking CPR training or BLS training for public courses in your area.
But, after all this, do remember that with knowledge about Online ambulance booking could make all the critical differences in any real emergency. Being prepared and informed can save lives—perhaps even that of someone you love.
So, take the step with RED.Health today!
