Is there’s a difference between CPR classes? Yes, there are different levels of CPR Training. Let’s look at some of those differences and discuss the meaning of those differences. The most common BLS (Basic Life Support) for healthcare providers is through the American Heart Association and here is the course description: (aha.org) The BLS Course trains participants to promptly recognize several life-threatening emergencies, give high-quality chest compressions, deliver appropriate ventilations and provide early use of an AED. In the Instructor-led course, students participate in simulated clinical scenarios and learning stations. Students work with an AHA BLS Instructor to complete BLS skills practice and skills testing. Students also complete a written exam. The American Red Cross is less common but also available: (redcross.org) Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS) uses a scenario-based approach to develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that drive better patient outcomes. It is consistent with AHA Guidelines for CPR/ECC, and covers breathing and cardiac emergencies - including CPR, AED, and obstructed airway - for adult, child, and infant patients. Courses are delivered nationwide by our expert instructors, and give you the flexibility to complete part of your training online through our dynamic Simulation Learning experience, which combines online coursework with in-person skills sessions, so you can earn your BLS certification your way.. This is the Description of the American Heart Association HeartSaver Course that is for Lay responders: (aha.org) Heartsaver courses are designed for anyone with little or no medical training who needs a course completion card for job, regulatory (for example, OSHA), or other requirements. These courses can also be taken by anyone who wants to be prepared for an emergency in any setting. For many Heartsaver courses, students receive a course completion card that is valid for 2 years. And finally, the description of American Red Cross standard CPR/First Aid Course: (redcross.org) Expert training. OSHA compliant. Affordable. If you need CPR training to satisfy an OSHA-mandated job requirement or you just want to know how to keep your loved ones safe, the American Red Cross has world-class instructors and award-winning online courses to ensure that you get the latest information, and quality instruction. With more than 550 locations across the United States and the option to choose from online or in-person courses, or take a blended Simulation Learning class that combines online learning with hands-on, in-person instruction, there's a Red Cross CPR class for the way you learn best. Prepare for the unexpected with first aid training from the American Red Cross. Developed and taught by experts, our convenient, affordable courses can help your organization become OSHA compliant – and empower your team to provide care when it's needed most. With award-winning online classes, plus first aid courses at more than 550 locations across the United States, and our best-in-class blended Simulation Learning, we offer training that's designed to suit your schedule and your learning style. So, what do these differences mean. Well people in any type of medical setting and as a job requirement must have CPR Training are typically required to have a BLS certification. Unlike the lay responder (Basic CPR or Heartsaver) class the healthcare provider focuses more on team responses, advances in equipment like a bag valve mask, what to do if there is an advanced airway placed, and checking for a pulse. The Basic Life Support is geared toward those who are in a helping profession such as nurses, doctors, EMT, therapists, dentists, and chiropractors just to name a few. As mentioned it is geared toward team approach to helping an individual or group of individuals that are in distress. I hope you found these descriptions helpful and the difference as to what the Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers focuses on. If you are unsure which CPR class you need to take, ask your representative questions and let them know why you need to take a class. A well educated representative/instructor should be able to answer those questions and guide you into taking the most appropriate course for your profession.