Choosing between BLS, Heartsaver CPR AED, and First Aid comes down to your role and what your employer or licensing body expects. If you work directly with patients (hospital, clinic, EMS, or dental), you’ll almost always need BLS for Healthcare Providers. If you’re a workplace responder or simply want to be prepared, Heartsaver CPR AED + First Aid is typically the best fit. And if you truly only need first-aid skills without CPR/AED, Heartsaver First Aid works. Not sure? Use the 60‑second quiz at the end of this post to get a single recommendation and next steps.

BLS (Basic Life Support) is designed for clinical environments where team-based resuscitation and skills like bag‑mask ventilation matter. Job titles that commonly require BLS include RN/MA/CNA, physician/PA, dental team members, EMS/Fire, and students with clinical rotations. If your paperwork says “Healthcare Provider CPR,” that often refers to BLS. Some hospital roles may also ask for advanced credentials (e.g., ACLS/PALS); when in doubt, bring your requirement memo to class or call our team.

Heartsaver is built for non‑medical settings. Choose Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED if your company wants OSHA‑aligned “workplace responder” training that covers adult CPR/AED plus first aid (bleeding, burns, sprains, allergic reactions, etc.). Work in childcare or regularly supervise kids? Ask for Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid CPR AED so your skills match infant/child needs. Organizing training for a staff group, school, gym, or job site is simple—our instructors come to you; start with Group CPR Training.

Ready to decide? Take the 60‑second quiz below to get your class in one click. If you still have questions, our FAQ page covers card validity, same‑day e‑cards, and scheduling. For anything unique to your employer or program—or to arrange an on‑site session—reach out via Contact and we’ll point you to the exact course and dates that fit.

FAQs

What’s the difference between BLS and Heartsaver?

BLS is for healthcare providers and students in clinical settings; it emphasizes high‑quality CPR for adults/children/infants, AED use, bag‑mask ventilation, and team dynamics. Heartsaver is for the public and workplace responders; it focuses on adult CPR/AED and first‑aid skills (with an optional pediatric track).

I’m a teacher or coach—what should I take?

Most schools and youth programs look for Heartsaver CPR AED, often paired with First Aid. Start here: CPR, AED & First Aid Training, and confirm specifics with your district or league administrator.

How long is my certification valid?

Most provider cards (BLS and Heartsaver) are valid for two years. See renewal details on our FAQ page or your employer’s policy.

Do you issue same‑day cards?

In most cases, yes—e‑cards are issued the same day after you complete skills. Learn how e‑cards work on our FAQ page.

Can you teach at our location?

Absolutely. We bring manikins, AED trainers, and supplies to you. Get a quick quote on Group CPR Training or send us a note via Contact.