Course Overview

Basic Life Support (BLS) is a critical, hands-on training programme designed specifically for healthcare professionals who may need to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies. Unlike basic CPR training intended for the general public, BLS goes significantly further - covering advanced techniques such as rescue breathing, two-rescuer CPR, bag-mask ventilation and the coordinated use of an AED in a clinical or team-based setting.

The course follows the latest American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines and is delivered in a classroom environment using video-based, instructor-led methodology. Every participant receives extensive manikin practice time to develop the muscle memory and confidence needed to perform under pressure. This is not a theoretical course - it's built around real-world scenario practice.

Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate issued by the Irish Heart Foundation, Ireland's national body for cardiac first response training. This certification is recognised by hospitals, nursing homes, GP practices, ambulance services and regulatory bodies across the Republic of Ireland.

📖 What You Will Learn

High-quality chest compressions for adults, children and infants
Rescue breathing techniques with and without a barrier device
Two-rescuer CPR coordination and team dynamics
Bag-mask ventilation (BVM) for healthcare providers
Automated External Defibrillator (AED) operation in clinical settings
Recognition of respiratory arrest, cardiac arrest and choking
Relief of foreign body airway obstruction across all age groups
Multi-rescuer resuscitation and role assignment

👥 Who Should Attend

Registered nurses and student nurses
Healthcare assistants and care workers
Doctors and medical students
Paramedics and EMTs
Physiotherapists and occupational therapists
Dentists and dental nurses
Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians
Anyone working in a healthcare environment requiring BLS certification

Course Details

Course Name	BLS - Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers
Duration	5–6 Hours
Format	Classroom-based, instructor-led with video content and manikin practice
Certificate	🏅 Irish Heart Foundation Certified
Guidelines	American Heart Association (AHA) aligned
Provider	Auxo Training Ltd
Delivery	On-site at your healthcare facility or at our Dublin centre
Prerequisites	None - suitable for both new and renewing participants
Certification Validity	2 years (recertification recommended)

Why BLS Certification Is Essential for Healthcare Professionals

In a healthcare setting, cardiac and respiratory emergencies can occur without warning. Whether you work on a hospital ward, in a nursing home, at a GP practice or in a community care role, the ability to deliver immediate, high-quality Basic Life Support is not just a professional advantage - it's a fundamental duty of care to your patients.

BLS training in Ireland ensures healthcare workers are equipped with the latest resuscitation techniques aligned with both AHA and ERC guidelines. The Irish Heart Foundation's BLS certification is the gold standard for healthcare providers across the Republic of Ireland and is a mandatory requirement for many clinical roles, NMBI registration renewals and hospital credentialing processes.

Regular BLS recertification is equally important. Research consistently shows that CPR skills degrade over time without practice. By renewing your Basic Life Support certification every two years, you maintain the confidence and competence to act decisively when seconds count. Auxo Training delivers life support training for nurses, doctors and care workers across Ireland - at your premises or our Dublin facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about the BLS Basic Life Support course.

How often should BLS certification be renewed?

BLS certification is valid for 2 years. The Irish Heart Foundation and AHA both recommend renewal every 2 years to ensure your skills remain current with the latest guidelines. Many healthcare employers require proof of current BLS certification as a condition of employment or registration renewal.

Is this course aligned with AHA and ERC guidelines?

Yes. The BLS course follows the latest American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines and is shaped by ongoing collaborations with the European Resuscitation Council (ERC). The Irish Heart Foundation, which issues the certification, is an ERC member and ensures all course content reflects the most up-to-date, evidence-based practices.

What is the difference between BLS and basic CPR?

Basic CPR (such as the AED Heartsaver course) is designed for the general public and covers fundamental chest compressions, rescue breathing and AED use. BLS goes further and is specifically designed for healthcare professionals - it includes two-rescuer CPR, bag-mask ventilation, advanced airway management and team-based resuscitation scenarios that reflect real clinical environments.

Can I take BLS if I've never done it before?

Absolutely. The BLS course is suitable for both first-time participants and those renewing their certification. The instructor-led format ensures that beginners receive step-by-step guidance, while experienced practitioners can refresh and update their skills. No prior BLS certification is required to attend.

Is BLS certification required for NMBI registration?

While NMBI (Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland) does not mandate a specific BLS provider, most Irish hospitals and healthcare employers require staff to hold a current BLS certification from a recognised provider such as the Irish Heart Foundation. Having up-to-date BLS is widely regarded as a professional standard for all registered nurses and midwives in Ireland.

BLS - Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers