The simple answer to whether Basic Life Support (BLS) counts as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is yes, but the relationship is hierarchical. CPR is the fundamental, physical skill set within the larger, systematic approach known as BLS. Basic Life Support is a comprehensive set of protocols and life-saving actions used to stabilize a person experiencing a life-threatening emergency, such as cardiac arrest or choking. While CPR focuses on manually maintaining blood flow and oxygenation, BLS incorporates the entire sequence of response, from recognizing the emergency to handing off care to advanced medical personnel.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is the manual procedure designed to temporarily circulate oxygenated blood to the brain and other vital organs when the heart has stopped. The physical act involves high-quality chest compressions and rescue breaths, following the C-A-B (Compressions, Airway, Breathing) sequence. The goal is to sustain the patient’s life until their heart can be restarted or until more advanced care is available.
Effective chest compressions are performed by pushing hard and fast on the center of the chest, aiming for a rate between 100 and 120 compressions per minute. For adults, the depth of these compressions should be at least two inches (five centimeters) to generate adequate pressure and blood flow. Rescue breathing is then provided to deliver oxygen to the lungs, typically at a ratio of 30 compressions followed by two breaths. This coordinated effort mimics the body’s natural function, buying precious time for the patient.
In many out-of-hospital scenarios, a lay rescuer may perform compressions-only CPR, which is still highly effective for the first few minutes of a sudden cardiac arrest. The immediate delivery of compressions is the most time-sensitive action, as the oxygen already present in the blood can be circulated to the brain. This foundational skill remains the single most important intervention a bystander can provide to double or triple a person’s chance of survival.
The Framework of Basic Life Support
Basic Life Support (BLS) is the systematic framework that directs the use of CPR and other immediate interventions. It is a defined set of actions that go beyond the manual skills of CPR to provide a complete package of pre-hospital emergency care. The BLS approach is dictated by the “Chain of Survival,” which begins with recognizing the emergency and immediately activating the emergency medical services (EMS) system.
A fundamental part of the BLS framework is the immediate use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The BLS curriculum heavily emphasizes the rapid application and operation of this device, unlike simple CPR training which may only briefly cover AED use. Defibrillation is often the definitive treatment for cardiac arrest, delivering an electrical shock to reset the heart’s rhythm. BLS protocols ensure this intervention is applied as quickly as possible upon the AED’s arrival.
The framework also includes managing foreign body airway obstruction (choking), with specific maneuvers for adults, children, and infants. BLS training dictates the proper sequence of assessment—checking for responsiveness and breathing—before initiating CPR. This comprehensive approach ensures the rescuer addresses all immediate threats to life until the patient is transferred to the next level of care, such as Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS).
Training Levels and Certification
The distinction between BLS and CPR often becomes most apparent when examining training and certification, which is where the context of the rescuer matters. Layperson or bystander training is frequently designated as “CPR Certified,” focusing on the foundational skills of chest compressions and rescue breathing for single-rescuer scenarios. This training is intended to empower the general public to act confidently in an emergency setting.
Conversely, a “BLS Certification” is required for healthcare providers and professional first responders, reflecting a more intensive and comprehensive curriculum. The professional BLS course incorporates advanced assessment techniques, such as checking for a pulse and breathing simultaneously, which is not taught to lay rescuers. Professionals also learn to use specialized ventilation devices, like the bag-valve mask, which allows for more effective oxygen delivery than standard rescue breaths.
BLS training heavily emphasizes team dynamics and multi-rescuer resuscitation protocols, which are necessary in clinical or high-stress emergency environments. The certification covers the specific roles of multiple rescuers working together to perform high-quality CPR and operate an AED efficiently. This focus on coordination, critical thinking, and the use of specialized equipment elevates BLS training above a standard CPR course, making it the required standard for medical professionals.