When it comes to Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, it’s essential to understand the differences between initial certification and recertification. Whether you’re starting from scratch or renewing your certification, both are vital for individuals in the healthcare or emergency response fields. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between initial BLS certification and recertification, so if you’re new to BLS or need to renew your certification, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect. We will help you understand what’s required if you are new to BLS or need to renew your certification.
What is BLS Certification?
BLS (Basic Life Support) certification is a recognized training program that teaches individuals how to provide essential care in medical emergencies. It covers life-saving skills such as performing CPR, using an AED for defibrillation, and managing choking incidents. Whether you’re a healthcare worker, first responder, or just someone who wants to be prepared, BLS certification equips you with the confidence and skills needed to respond effectively in critical situations, potentially saving lives until professional help arrives.
Who Needs BLS Certification?
BLS certification is essential for healthcare providers, emergency responders, and anyone involved in patient care. This includes doctors, nurses, paramedics, firefighters, lifeguards, and even teachers or daycare providers who might need to act quickly in an emergency.
Initial BLS Certification
Who Should Take It?
Anyone who is beginning their career in healthcare or emergency response, or those who have never had BLS training before, should take the initial certification course. This is also necessary for individuals whose certification has expired and needs a complete renewal. The course is hands-on, with practice on manikins and equipment, ensuring learners are prepared for real-life emergencies.
Course Content & Requirements
The initial BLS course at Heart Start CPR covers a variety of crucial life-saving skills, including:
- Adult, child, and infant CPR
- Use of Automated External Defibrillators (AED)
- Relief of choking (Heimlich maneuver)
- Basic airway management
- Recognition and treatment of sudden cardiac arrest
Also read : Common Abbreviations To Know in BLS
Course Duration & Exam Format
The initial BLS course lasts between 4 to 6 hours, depending on the class size and the pace of instruction. After completing the training, participants must pass a skills test and written exam to receive certification. The skills test involves performing CPR and other life-saving techniques, while the written exam ensures participants understand key concepts.
Also read: BLS study guide
BLS Recertification
Who Needs Recertification?
Recertification is required for those whose initial BLS certification has expired or is about to expire. Most BLS certifications are valid for two years, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on skills and techniques. Recertification is vital for continuing to work in the healthcare and emergency response fields, as many employers require current certification.
Differences from Initial Certification
While recertification covers much of the same content as the initial certification, it is shorter in duration and focuses more on skill refreshment rather than initial learning. Participants will review essential life-saving techniques and have the opportunity to practice them before taking the skills test and exam.
Course Duration & Exam Format
Recertification courses last 3 to 4 hours, shorter than the initial certification. The recertification process is streamlined, but participants still need to demonstrate proficiency in CPR, AED use, and other critical skills. After completing the course, participants take a skills test and a short written exam to receive their renewed certification.
Key Differences Between BLS Initial Certification & Recertification
If you’re new to BLS, the initial certification covers all fundamental skills. If you’re renewing, recertification focuses on refreshing and updating your knowledge. Below is a breakdown of key differences between BLS Initial Certification vs. Recertification:
| Aspect | Initial BLS Certification | BLS Recertification |
| Course Duration | 4-6 hours | 3-4 hours |
| Content | Designed for individuals with no prior BLS knowledge | Focuses on refreshing existing skills |
| Exam | Extensive exam and skills test | Shorter exam and skills test |
| Cost | Generally higher due to additional materials and instruction | More affordable due to the shorter course and materials |
| Course Level | Beginner-level, teaching fundamental BLS concepts | Refresher course for those already certified |
| Hands-on Practice | More in-depth hands-on practice and demonstrations | Focused review and practice on key skills |
| Target Audience | New learners or those with expired certifications | Individuals looking to renew their certification |
| Frequency of Renewal | Once, then renew after 2 years | Renewed every 2 years |
| Certification Validity | Valid for 2 years | Valid for another 2 years after renewal |
| Expired Certification | Individuals whose certification has expired or who have not renewed will need to take the full initial certification course | Those whose certification has not been renewed within 2 years or is about to expire should complete recertification |
Why Choose Heart Start CPR for Your BLS Training?
We make it easy for you to get certified or recertified in BLS. At Heart Start CPR, whether you are signing up for initial BLS certification or renewing your skills through recertification, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way. We focus on hands-on, real-world training in a supportive environment, ensuring you leave with the confidence to respond in emergencies. With flexible course schedules for both initial and recertification, you can easily fit training into your busy life. You can trust us to provide the highest-quality BLS courses so you’ll be ready to save lives when it counts.
How to Enroll in a BLS Course with Heart Start CPR
Our simple registration process makes it easy to sign up for the BLS certification course. You’ll be ready to save lives in no time! Just follow these 3 simple steps:
Step 1: Select Your BLS Certification Course, Location, and Time
Choose the BLS certification option that best suits your needs and pick a convenient location and time for your training.
Step 2: Complete Online Self-Paced Training Anytime, Anywhere
Finish the online portion of the course at your own pace, whenever and wherever works best for you.
Step 3: Demonstrate Hands-On Skills In Person with an AHA Voice-Assisted Manikin
Attend the in-person session to demonstrate your BLS skills using an AHA voice-assisted manikin, ensuring you’re fully prepared for real-world emergencies.
Conclusion
The difference between initial BLS certification and recertification is important to know in order to stay prepared for emergencies. Whether you are starting from scratch or renewing your certification, keeping your BLS skills up to date is key to responding when it matters the most. Both types of purses ensure that you have the necessary knowledge and hands-on experience to save lives. If you are a medical professional, regularly refresh your skills to be always ready to act in critical situations. Get to know about the renewal process and know when it’s time to take action. You can also check the expiry date on your BLS certification card and enroll in a course that fits your time and needs. And we are here to help you guide you through the process and make sure you are fully prepared.
