Basic Life Support (BLS)

TL;DR

Emergency procedures for sustaining life, including CPR and airway management.

What is Basic Life Support (BLS)?

Basic Life Support (BLS) refers to the primary care provided to patients experiencing life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrest, respiratory arrest, or airway obstruction.

The BLS action plan, also known as the DRSABCD (Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defibrillation) approach, guides rescuers through critical steps to ensure the safety of both the rescuer and the casualty, assess the casualty’s condition, and provide necessary interventions like CPR and defibrillation. BLS is a foundational skill for first aiders and healthcare providers, focusing on maintaining circulation and breathing until advanced care is available .

Components of BLS

• DRSABCD: Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defibrillation.
• CPR: Performing chest compressions and rescue breaths.
• AED Use: Applying and using an Automated External Defibrillator if available.
• Recovery Position: Placing an unconscious but breathing casualty in a stable side position.

Takeaway to remember

Basic Life Support (BLS) refers to the primary level of medical care used for patients experiencing life-threatening illnesses or injuries. BLS includes maintaining an open airway, supporting breathing, and ensuring circulation through chest compressions and artificial ventilation.

Reference

• First Aid eBook