What does "BLS" stand for in emergency medical services?

In emergency medical services, "BLS" stands for Basic Life Support. This term is critical as it refers to the essential, life-sustaining techniques that are applied to individuals experiencing life-threatening conditions, particularly those relating to cardiac arrest and respiratory failure. Basic Life Support includes interventions such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and maintaining an open airway to ensure oxygenation.

Understanding BLS is vital for healthcare professionals, especially for those in emergency or pre-hospital settings, as these skills can significantly improve patient outcomes during critical situations. The BLS training focuses on both the skills and the knowledge needed to recognize emergencies and deliver critical interventions until advanced medical assistance can be provided. This foundational training is essential across various levels of healthcare, reinforcing the importance of immediate care to stabilize patients in emergencies.