1. Adult BLS

• Scene Safety and Recognition of Cardiac Arrest: Checking responsiveness, breathing, and pulse.
• High-Quality CPR:
1. Chest compressions at a rate of 100–120/min, depth of at least 2 inches.
2. Full chest recoil between compressions.
3. Ventilations at a ratio of 30:2 (for 1-rescuer) and 15:2 (for 2-rescuer).
• Rescue Breathing: 1 breath every 5–6 seconds if the person has a pulse but is not breathing.
• Use of a Bag-Mask Device by two rescuers.
• Team Dynamics: Emphasizing clear communication and role distribution during resuscitation.

Child BLS (Age: 1 year to puberty)

• CPR Differences for Children:
1. Compression depth: about 2 inches (5 cm).
2. Use one or two hands depending on the child’s size.
3. Compression to ventilation ratio: 30:2 for 1-rescuer, 15:2 for 2-rescuer.
• Pediatric Chain of Survival.
• Rescue Breaths: 1 breath every 3–5 seconds.

Infant BLS (Under 1 year)

• CPR Technique:
1. Compression depth: 1.5 inches (4 cm).
2. Use 2 fingers for single rescuer; 2 thumbs encircling technique for 2 rescuers.
3. Ventilation rate and compression ratio same as child BLS.
• Emphasis on gentle technique to avoid injury.

Choking Management

Adult Choking

• Recognition: Silent cough, inability to speak, cyanosis.
• Heimlich Maneuver (Abdominal Thrusts):
1. Stand behind the person.
2. Use quick upward abdominal thrusts.
3. If the person becomes unresponsive, begin CPR and check airway.

Infant Choking

• Signs: Weak cry, ineffective coughing, bluish skin.
• Back Blows and Chest Thrusts:
1. 5 back blows between shoulder blades using heel of the hand.
2. Follow with 5 chest thrusts using 2 fingers on the lower half of the breastbone.
3. Continue until the object is expelled or the infant becomes unresponsive.

AED Use (Automated External Defibrillator)

• For Adults and Children:
1. Turn on the AED and follow voice prompts.
2. Attach pads to the chest correctly.
3. Ensure no one is touching the victim during analysis or shock.
4. Resume CPR immediately after the shock.
• Pediatric AED Pads: Use if available for children under 8 years or infants.

Conclusion

The BLS course is an essential life-saving program that empowers individuals to act confidently during cardiac and respiratory emergencies. Whether the victim is an adult, child, or infant, the ability to perform high-quality CPR, relieve choking, and effectively use an AED can make the difference between life and death.