Participation in a Basic Life Support (BLS) skills session is an optional assessment to evaluate students' ability to perform the mechanical skills they have acquired during BLS for healthcare providers certification. Here is an overview of the skills testing process.
What is the BLS Skills Session?
The BLS Skills Session is a comprehensive assessment of basic life support (BLS) skills. It is designed to evaluate an individual's knowledge and proficiency in performing essential BLS skills such as chest compressions, rescue breathing, and automated external defibrillation (AED). The session includes a series of tasks that must be completed to demonstrate the ability to perform these skills correctly and safely. The tasks are designed to assess the individual's knowledge and understanding of BLS principles and their ability to apply them in a real-life setting. The session also includes a written exam that tests the individual's knowledge of BLS concepts and procedures.
BLS Skills Checklist
The BLS Skills Checklist is an important part of the BLS Skills Session. It is specifically designed for use by the examiner administering the BLS skills examination. As the examinee is guided through the skills session, the examiner will use the checklist to ensure that all required knowledge and skills are demonstrated. The examiner will check off each task as it is completed and will provide a signed BLS skills certificate to the examinee upon successful completion.
BLS Skills Test Examiner
The BLS Skills Test Examiner is a certified professional who is responsible for administering the BLS Skills Session. The examiner must be knowledgeable in all aspects of basic life support and have the ability to assess an individual's knowledge and proficiency in performing essential BLS skills. The examiner will use the BLS Skills Checklist to ensure that all required knowledge and skills are demonstrated. They will also provide guidance and feedback to the examinee throughout the session.
Directions for Skills Testing
The examiner for AHA BLS certification should read the BLS scenario to the examinee and follow along with the corresponding checklist, checking off each portion as the examinee verbalizes and demonstrates their knowledge and skill in current BLS concepts and mechanics. The examiner should not provide answers or extra guidance beyond the information in the scenario. If guidance is needed to reach the correct answer, the corresponding portion of the checklist should be marked as incomplete, and the examinee should repeat the BLS scenario after reviewing the portion they performed incorrectly. The examiner should provide feedback if the examinee needs to repeat the test.
NOTE: Only a current certified BLS provider can administer the test.
BLS Scenario - Adult (Single Rescuer)
The BLS Scenario - Adult (Single Rescuer) is a simulated emergency situation designed to assess an individual's knowledge and proficiency in performing essential BLS skills. The scenario involves a single rescuer responding to an adult patient in cardiac arrest. The rescuer must demonstrate their ability to correctly perform chest compressions, rescue breathing, and automated external defibrillation (AED).
Test examiner: You are having your lunch in the office when your colleague suddenly collapsed to the floor.
1. The examinee should secure the scene. (Scene is safe)
2. Assesses patient responsiveness. (No pulse present, no breaths observed)
3. Directs someone to call for help and get the AED. (Bystanders have gone to call 911 and get the AED)
4. Demonstrates correct CPR hand placement and body positioning over the patient.
5. Demonstrates correct compression rate and depth and allows for complete chest recoil.
6. Demonstrates opening the airway, gives effective breaths, and observes visible chest rise.
7. Have the examinee perform a second round of CPR. (AED has arrived, switch providers giving compressions)
8. Demonstrates correct placement of AED without interrupting CPR. (AED analyzes rhythm)
9. Examinee clears the patient for rhythm check and shock. (Shock delivered)
10. Examinee immediately returns to CPR after the shock is delivered.
BLS Scenario - Adult (Two-Rescuer)
This BLS Scenario - Adult (Two-Rescuer) is designed to evaluate an individual's understanding and proficiency in performing fundamental BLS skills with two rescuers. It requires two rescuers to respond to an adult in cardiac arrest, demonstrating their capability to execute chest compressions, rescue breathing, and automated external defibrillation (AED).
Test examiner: You are running in the park when you notice a person nearby shouting for help. An adult male has collapsed to the ground.
1. The examinee should secure the scene. (Scene is safe)
2. Assesses patient responsiveness. (No pulse present, no breaths observed)
3. Directs someone to call for help and get the AED. (Bystanders have gone to call 911 and get the AED)
4. Demonstrates correct CPR hand placement and body positioning over the patient.
5. Demonstrates correct compression rate and depth and allows for complete chest recoil.
6. Demonstrates opening the airway, gives effective breaths, and observes visible chest rise.
7. Have the examinee perform a second round of CPR. (AED has arrived, switch providers giving compressions)
8. Demonstrates correct placement of AED without interrupting CPR. (AED analyzes rhythm)
9. Examinee clears the patient for rhythm check and shock. (Shock delivered)
10. Examinee immediately returns to CPR after the shock is delivered.
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BLS Scenario - Child over 1 year (Single Rescuer)
The BLS Scenario - Child over 1 year (Single Rescuer) is a simulated emergency situation designed to assess an individual's knowledge and proficiency in performing essential BLS skills. The scenario involves a single rescuer responding to a child over 1 year of age in cardiac arrest.
Test examiner: You are a preschool teacher. You are watching the children playing in the classroom when you suddenly witness a 4-year-old female student collapse.
1. Examinee secures the scene. (Scene is safe)
2. Assesses patient responsiveness. (No pulse present, no breaths observed)
3. Calls for help and gets AED first, then begins CPR.
4. Demonstrates correct CPR hand placement- one palm or both palms, one over the other, on the lower sternum between the nipples.
5. Performs single rescuer CPR: 30 compressions: 2 rescue breaths for 5 cycles (2 minutes).
6. Demonstrates correct compression rate, depth and complete chest recoil.
7. Opens airway, gives effective breaths/observes visible chest rise. (Help arrives with an AED)
8. Demonstrates correct placement of AED pads.
9. Clear of the patient during rhythm analysis/shock
10. Continues CPR immediately after shock delivery.
BLS Scenario - Child over one year (Two- Rescuers)
The BLS Scenario - Child over one year (Two-Rescuers) is a simulated emergency situation designed to assess an individual's knowledge and proficiency in performing essential BLS skills with two rescuers. The scenario involves two rescuers responding to a child over one year of age in cardiac arrest.
Test examiner: You are walking through the park when you notice a group of people gathered around a 3-year-old male child who has collapsed.
1. Examinee secures the scene. (Scene is safe)
2. Assesses patient responsiveness. (No pulse detected. The patient is not breathing. There are several adults there ready to help.)
3. Examinee directs the bystander to call for help and get AED while the examinee begins two-rescuer CPR.
4. Demonstrates correct CPR hand placement- one palm or both palms, one over the other, on the lower sternum between the nipples.
5. Performs two-rescuers CPR: 15 compressions: 2 rescue breaths for 2 minutes.
6. Demonstrates correct compression rate, depth and complete chest recoil.
7. Opens airway, gives effective breaths/observes visible chest rise. (Bystander has returned with AED)
8. Examinee switches roles with the second rescuer. The second provider now performs the opposite role (compression or breaths).
9. Demonstrates correct placement of AED pads.
10. Clear of the patient during rhythm analysis/shock
11. Continues CPR immediately after shock delivery.
BLS Scenario - Infant 0-1 year (Single Rescuer)
The BLS Scenario - Infant 0-1 year (Single Rescuer) is a simulated emergency situation designed to assess an individual's knowledge and proficiency in performing essential BLS skills with a single rescuer. The scenario involves a single rescuer responding to an infant under one year of age in cardiac arrest.
Test examiner: You are babysitting a 6 -month-old infant. You went to the bathroom, and when you return, you notice that the infant is unresponsive.
1. Examinee secures the scene. (Scene is safe)
2. Assesses patient responsiveness. (No pulse present, no breaths observed)
3. Commences 2 min of CPR first, then calls for help/gets AED.
4. Demonstrates correct CPR hand placement- two fingers over the chest sternum.
5. Performs single rescuer CPR: 30 compressions/2 breaths for 5 cycles (2 min).
6. Demonstrates correct compression rate, depth, and complete chest recoil.
7. Opens airway, gives effective breaths/observes visible chest rise. (Help arrives with an AED)
8. Demonstrates correct placement of AED pads.
9. Clear the patient during rhythm analysis/shock.
10. Continues CPR immediately after shock delivery.
BLS Scenario - Infant 0-1 year (Two-Rescuers)
Test examiner: You and another nurse are getting lunch after a shift when a woman shouts for help. Her 3-month-old daughter has become unresponsive.
1. Examinee secures the scene. (Scene is safe)
2. Assesses patient responsiveness. (No pulse detected. The patient is not breathing.)
3. Examinee directs the mother to call for help and get AED and performs two-rescuer CPR.
4. Demonstrates correct CPR hand placement- having the hands encircle the infant’s torso with thumbs midline over the sternum, 1 cm below the nipple line.
5. Gives 15 compressions to 2 breaths for 2 minutes.
6. Demonstrates correct compression rate, depth, and complete chest recoil.
7. Opens airway, gives effective breaths/observes visible chest rise. (Mother has returned with AED)
8. Examinee switches roles with the second provider. The second provider now performs CPR compressions.
9. Demonstrates correct placement of AED pads without disrupting compressions.
10. Clear of the patient during rhythm analysis/shock
11. Continues CPR immediately after shock delivery.
Upon completing your BLS Skills Session, you will be awarded your 2-year American Heart Association Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers certification. At CPR Select, we wish to provide you with all the necessary information to ensure a successful and confident skills session! You may download our BLS Skills Test Checklist by clicking the button below.
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Frequently Asked Questions About BLS Skills Session Testing
What basic skills are covered in a BLS session?
A BLS session comprehensively covers fundamental life-saving skills. Participants learn to perform high-quality CPR, use automated external defibrillators (AEDs) effectively, manage choking incidents in adults and infants, and respond to various emergency situations with confidence and competence.
Who can attend a BLS skills session?
BLS skills sessions are intentionally designed to cater to a diverse audience. Both healthcare professionals, such as nurses and doctors, and laypeople, including teachers and office workers, are encouraged to attend. There are no specific prerequisites, ensuring accessibility for individuals with varying levels of experience in first aid.
Is prior knowledge or experience in first aid required?
No prior knowledge or experience in first aid is necessary for attending a BLS skills session. Instructors are well-equipped to accommodate participants with diverse backgrounds, creating an inclusive learning environment for beginners and those with varying levels of familiarity with first aid techniques.
How long does a BLS certification last?
BLS certification is typically valid for two years. This timeframe ensures that individuals remain up-to-date with the latest guidelines and practices. Recertification is required to reinforce skills, stay informed about any changes in protocols, and maintain proficiency in life-saving techniques.
What is the difference between BLS and CPR training?
While CPR is a crucial component of BLS training, BLS encompasses a broader spectrum of life-saving techniques. Beyond CPR, participants learn how to use AEDs and effectively manage choking incidents. BLS equips individuals with a comprehensive skill set for responding to various emergency situations.
Will there be practical demonstrations and hands-on practice?
BLS sessions prioritize hands-on learning. Participants engage in practical demonstrations under the guidance of certified instructors. This approach allows individuals to actively apply the skills they learn, ensuring a better understanding and increased proficiency in life-saving techniques.
Are the training methods up-to-date with the latest guidelines?
Absolutely. BLS training methods consistently align with the most recent guidelines issued by relevant health and resuscitation councils. Instructors undergo regular updates to stay informed about any changes, ensuring that participants receive instruction in line with the latest standards and protocols.
What should I bring to the BLS skills session?
Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing suitable for hands-on activities. Bringing writing materials, such as a notepad and pen, is recommended for those who prefer to take notes. Additionally, participants should check for any pre-course materials provided by the training organization.
How is proficiency in BLS skills assessed during the session?
Proficiency is assessed through a combination of practical demonstrations and, in some cases, written tests. Instructors provide constructive feedback during hands-on activities, and written assessments ensure a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical aspects of BLS.
What happens if I don't pass the BLS skills assessment?
In the event of not passing the assessment, participants typically have the opportunity to retake the test or attend additional training sessions. Instructors work with individuals to identify areas for improvement, offering guidance and support to ensure participants can successfully demonstrate their proficiency in BLS skills.
How can I use BLS skills in real-life situations?
BLS skills are applicable in critical real-life scenarios, such as responding to cardiac arrests, choking incidents, and other emergencies. Knowing how to initiate CPR, use an AED, and respond confidently can make a significant difference in increasing the chances of survival and minimizing potential harm.
Can BLS skills be used on infants and children?
Yes, BLS techniques can be adapted for infants and children. Participants will learn the nuances of providing life-saving interventions tailored to these age groups, recognizing the importance of adjusting techniques to suit the specific needs and anatomical differences of infants and children compared to adults.