When it comes to emergency medical training, two certifications that often come up are ACLS and CPR-BLS. Both certifications are important in the field of healthcare and can help save lives in emergency situations. However, there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we will discuss what ACLS and CPR-BLS are, the difference between them, the job descriptions associated with each certification, the education and training required, and the career outlook and salary for individuals with these certifications.

Introduction

Emergency medical training is essential in the healthcare field, as it equips individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to respond to life-threatening situations. ACLS and CPR-BLS are two certifications that focus on emergency medical training and are commonly required in healthcare settings. Understanding the differences between these certifications can help individuals choose the right training for their career goals.

What is ACLS and CPR-BLS?

ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) is a certification that focuses on the management of cardiac arrest and other cardiovascular emergencies. It is designed for healthcare professionals who work in critical care settings, such as hospitals and emergency departments. ACLS training covers topics such as recognizing and managing cardiac arrest, identifying and treating stroke, and managing other cardiopulmonary emergencies.

CPR-BLS (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation - Basic Life Support) is a certification that focuses on basic life support skills, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), using an automated external defibrillator (AED), and providing care for choking victims. CPR-BLS training is intended for individuals who are not healthcare professionals but may be required to respond to emergencies in their workplace or community. This certification is often required for occupations such as lifeguards, teachers, and childcare providers.

Difference between ACLS and CPR-BLS

While both ACLS and CPR-BLS certifications involve emergency medical training, there are several key differences between the two:

1. Scope of Practice: ACLS is more advanced and focuses on managing cardiac arrest and other cardiovascular emergencies in a critical care setting. CPR-BLS, on the other hand, is a basic life support certification that covers essential life-saving skills for non-healthcare professionals.

2. Target Audience: ACLS is designed for healthcare professionals who work in critical care settings, such as doctors, nurses, and paramedics. CPR-BLS is intended for individuals who are not healthcare professionals but may need to respond to emergencies in their workplace or community.

3. Training Content: ACLS training covers topics such as advanced airway management, pharmacology, and the use of advanced cardiac life support algorithms. CPR-BLS training focuses on basic life support skills, including CPR, AED use, and care for choking victims.

4. Certification Renewal: ACLS certification typically needs to be renewed every two years, while CPR-BLS certification may require renewal every one or two years, depending on the organization.

ACLS vs CPR-BLS: Job Description

Understanding the job descriptions associated with ACLS and CPR-BLS certifications can help individuals determine which certification aligns with their career goals. Here are the job descriptions for each certification:

ACLS Job Description:

• Healthcare professionals with ACLS certification often work in critical care settings, such as hospitals, emergency departments, and intensive care units.
• They are responsible for managing cardiac arrest and other cardiovascular emergencies, including performing advanced life support interventions, interpreting cardiac rhythms, and administering appropriate medications.
• ACLS-certified professionals may also be involved in providing post-resuscitation care and stabilizing patients for further treatment.

CPR-BLS Job Description:

• Individuals with CPR-BLS certification may work in various settings, including schools, fitness centers, childcare facilities, and community organizations.
• They are responsible for responding to emergencies and providing basic life support, including performing CPR, using an AED, and providing care for choking victims.
• CPR-BLS-certified individuals may also be involved in educating others on basic life support techniques and promoting emergency preparedness.

ACLS vs CPR-BLS: Education and Training

The education and training required for ACLS and CPR-BLS certifications differ based on the target audience and scope of practice. Here are the requirements for each certification:

ACLS Education and Training:

• ACLS certification is typically offered to healthcare professionals who have already completed their initial medical training, such as doctors, nurses, and paramedics.
• The training involves both online coursework and hands-on practice, including simulated emergency scenarios.
• Participants are required to pass a written exam and demonstrate competency in performing ACLS interventions.

CPR-BLS Education and Training:

• CPR-BLS certification is open to individuals who are not healthcare professionals but may need to respond to emergencies in their workplace or community.
• The training is often offered through organizations such as the American Heart Association or the Red Cross and can be completed in a single day or over a few sessions.
• Participants learn basic life support skills, including CPR techniques, AED use, and how to respond to choking emergencies.
• A written exam or skills assessment may be required to obtain certification.

ACLS vs CPR-BLS: Career Outlook and Salary

The career outlook and salary for individuals with ACLS and CPR-BLS certifications can vary based on their specific roles and settings. Here is an overview of the career outlook and salary range for each certification:

ACLS Career Outlook and Salary:

• Healthcare professionals with ACLS certification often have a wider range of career opportunities, as they can work in critical care settings and specialize in cardiac and cardiovascular emergencies.
• Job prospects for healthcare professionals with ACLS certification are generally favorable, as the demand for skilled critical care providers continues to grow.
• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for registered nurses, who often hold ACLS certification, was $75,330 in May 2020.

CPR-BLS Career Outlook and Salary:

• Individuals with CPR-BLS certification may find employment in various settings, such as schools, fitness centers, and community organizations.
• Job opportunities for individuals with CPR-BLS certification can vary based on the specific industry and location.
• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for lifeguards, who often hold CPR-BLS certification, was $24,310 in May 2020.

Final Thoughts

Both ACLS and CPR-BLS certifications play critical roles in emergency medical training. ACLS is designed for healthcare professionals who work in critical care settings and focuses on managing cardiac arrest and other cardiovascular emergencies. CPR-BLS, on the other hand, is intended for non-healthcare professionals and covers basic life support skills. Understanding the differences between these certifications can help individuals choose the right training for their career goals. Whether you are pursuing a career as a healthcare professional or looking to gain essential life-saving skills, ACLS and CPR-BLS certifications can provide you with the necessary training to respond to emergencies effectively.

Dreambound has strategically placed its educational programs in various locations, making it easy for aspiring individuals to access valuable opportunities. For a thorough insight into the dynamic realms of these two vocations, we encourage you to delve into more detailed information by visiting:

• ACLS in South Carolina
• CPR-BLS in South Carolina
• ACLS classes near you
• CPR-BLS classes near you