What's the Difference Between CPR and BLS? Choosing the Right Class for You
Have you ever searched online for a CPR class only to find options for CPR, BLS, Heartsaver, and First Aid? You're not alone. One of the most common questions we receive at Frost Rescue is:
"Which class do I actually need?"
Let's break it down.
What Is CPR?
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is the lifesaving skill used when someone has stopped breathing or their heart has stopped beating. CPR training teaches you how to:
Recognize a cardiac emergency
Perform chest compressions
Provide rescue breaths (when appropriate)
Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
Help until emergency responders arrive
CPR is a valuable skill for everyone—not just healthcare professionals.
What Is Heartsaver CPR?
The American Heart Association Heartsaver® courses are designed for people who need CPR training for work or simply want to be prepared for emergencies.
These courses are ideal for:
Parents and grandparents
Teachers
Childcare providers
Coaches
Church volunteers
Office employees
Fitness instructors
Anyone who wants to be prepared
Many Heartsaver courses also include First Aid and AED training, giving you the confidence to respond to common medical emergencies and injuries.
What Is BLS?
Basic Life Support (BLS) is a more advanced American Heart Association course intended for healthcare professionals and others whose jobs require a higher level of emergency response.
BLS includes:
High-quality CPR for adults, children, and infants
Team-based resuscitation
Two-rescuer CPR
Bag-mask ventilation
Effective use of an AED
Relief of choking
Recognition of life-threatening emergencies
BLS focuses on providing care in healthcare settings and is commonly required for medical professionals.
Who Usually Needs BLS?
BLS certification is often required for:
Nurses
Physicians
EMTs and Paramedics
Firefighters
Respiratory Therapists
Dentists and Dental Staff
Medical Assistants
Nursing Students
Physical and Occupational Therapists
Other licensed healthcare professionals
If your employer, school, or licensing board specifically requires BLS Provider, this is the course you should take.
Which Class Is Right for You?
Choose Heartsaver CPR if you are:
✔ A parent or grandparent
✔ A teacher or coach
✔ A childcare provider
✔ An office employee
✔ A church volunteer
✔ A concerned community member
Choose BLS if you are:
✔ A healthcare professional
✔ A nursing or medical student
✔ An EMT or firefighter
✔ Required by your employer to maintain BLS certification
Still Not Sure?
That's okay!
At Frost Rescue, we're happy to help you determine which American Heart Association course best fits your profession or personal goals. Whether you need certification for work or simply want the confidence to help a loved one during an emergency, we'll make sure you're enrolled in the right class.
Learn with Confidence
Our experienced instructors provide hands-on, engaging American Heart Association training in a supportive learning environment. We believe that CPR education should build confidence—not anxiety.
If you're ready to learn lifesaving skills, explore our upcoming classes or contact us with any questions. We'd be honored to help you prepare for the moments that matter most.