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CPR vs. BLS: What’s the Difference?

If you’re looking to get certified, you’ve probably noticed two terms tossed around almost interchangeably: CPR and BLS. They’re related, but they’re not the same thing — and picking the right one matters for your job, your license, or your peace of mind.

Hands-on CPR training brought directly to your location

​Fast, simple, and stress-free certification

CPR-BLS-Certification-Reno

What Is CPR?

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a life-saving technique used when someone’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing.

 

It combines chest compressions with rescue breaths to keep oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and vital organs until emergency help arrives or a defibrillator can be used.

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CPR certification is designed for:

  • Parents and caregivers

  • Teachers and childcare workers

  • Coaches and fitness instructors

  • General workplace requirements

  • Anyone who wants to be prepared in an emergency

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A standard CPR course typically covers adult, child, and infant CPR, along with choking response and basic AED use.

What Is BLS?

BLS (Basic Life Support) is a more advanced, healthcare-focused certification. It includes everything in standard CPR, but goes further - covering team-based resuscitation, multi-rescuer scenarios, use of advanced airway devices, and protocols designed to match real clinical and emergency settings.

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BLS certification is required for:

  • Nurses, doctors, and medical assistants

  • EMTs and paramedics

  • Dental professionals

  • Hospital and clinical staff

  • Anyone in a healthcare role where employers or licensing boards mandate it

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BLS follows guidelines set by the American Heart Association (AHA) and is built around working as part of a coordinated response team, not just responding solo.

Which One Do You Need?

The short answer: it depends on your job or requirement.

  • If you’re a parent, teacher, childcare provider, or just want to be prepared at home - CPR certification is exactly what you need.

  • If you work in healthcare, or your employer/licensing board specifically requires BLS - you’ll need to register for a BLS course, since CPR alone won’t satisfy that requirement.

  • Not sure which applies to you? Check with your employer, state licensing board, or program - they’ll usually specify “CPR” or “BLS” by name in their requirements.

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We can help you figure out the right course for you. Contact us today!

Course Options

Course

CPR & AED

CPR & AED

Adult, Child & Infant

CPR, AED & First Aid

CPR AED & First Aid

Adult, Child & Infant

First Aid

Fee (per student)

$75

$85

$85

$95

$70

Class Length

1.5 -2 Hours

3.5 Hours

3.5 Hours

5.5 Hours

2.5 Hours

Certification

AHA CPR & AED

AHA CPR & AED

AHA CPR AED & First Aid

AHA CPR AED & First Aid

AHA First Aid

BLS

BLS (Basic Life Support)

For Healthcare Providers

$80

3.5-4 Hours

AHA BLS

Bloodborne Pathogens

$45

1 Hour

Bloodborne Pathogens

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