An introduction to the General Concepts of Basic Life Support. This video discusses the BLS Adult and Pediatric Chains of Survival. Knowing which actions to take and being efficient in their execution can make the difference in a life-or-death cardiac arrest situation. There are appropriate actions for both the Adult Chain of Survival and Pediatric Chain of Survival. Both of which are reviewed in this lesson. 

The second lesson covers BLS Guideline Changes made in 2020. The ILCOR updates its guidelines every five years on CPR and ECC. The 2020 edition expands on many of the recommendations made in 2015. Changes have also been made to the new edition of guidelines, and those changes are discussed throughout the lesson.

The first lesson in chapter 2. This lesson discusses the BLS process and CPR steps associated with adults in a one-rescuer situation. The process is explained step-by-step, beginning with a situational assessment. Proper CPR steps are reviewed and explained. 

The second lesson in chapter 2. This lesson discusses the BLS process and CPR steps associated with adults in a two-rescuer situation. The steps of BLS and CPR are reviewed and the role of both the first and second rescuer is made clear. It is important for each rescuer to be aware of their role and its responsibilities to minimize interruptions in CPR.

This lesson discusses Adult Mouth-to-Mask Ventilation, which is the use of a mask to deliver breaths in one-rescuer CPR. The appropriate use is detailed step-by-step. These guidelines help to ensure CPR is administered properly in one-rescuer situations requiring the use of a ventilated mask.

This lesson discusses Adult Bag-Mask Ventilation, which is the use of a mask to deliver breaths in one-rescuer CPR. The appropriate use is detailed step-by-step. These guidelines help to ensure CPR is administered properly in one-rescuer situations requiring the use of a bag-mask.

Chapter 3 discusses the use of an AED, or automated external defibrillator. The steps of operating an AED are reviewed. The potential readings are also discussed, as well as what to do to ensure the AED is working properly.

The first lesson in chapter 4, One-Rescuer BLS for Children. Children are defined as between age 1 and puberty. There are slight differences between BLS for adults and children, and those differences are highlighted. CPR and AED use are reviewed, as well as what to do if there is no one around to help. 

The second lesson in chapter 4 discusses Two-Rescuer BLS for Children. Children are defined as between age 1 and puberty. The process for two rescuers is described in detail, step-by-step. Each rescuer must be aware of their role and responsibilities to avoid miscommunication and other issues. CPR and AED use are reviewed. 

The third lesson of chapter 4, Child Ventilation. The first step is to ensure the bag-mask is the correct size. How to determine whether the mask is sized correctly is covered in the lesson. The proper use of the bag-mask is discussed. 

Chapter 5 discusses BLS for Infants. Infants are defined as age 0 to 12 months. Determining responsiveness is the first step in BLS for infants. Each step is explained in detail, from assessing the scene to contacting 911 and providing CPR. The differences in treatment for infants are also emphasized. Including, but not limited to, compression depth. Proper AED use and CPR are explained. 

This lesson covers BLS for infants, in two-rescuer situations. Infants are defined as age 0 to 12 months. In two-rescuer situations, each rescuer has specific duties. Clear communication is important to ensure the best possible administration of care. The differences in treatment for infants as opposed to children or adults are discussed.

Chapter 6 discusses how to use an AED for children and infants. Along with provided a detailed definition of an AED, or automated external defibrillator, the steps for using an AED are explained. In the event the AED provides unexpected readings, such as “check electrodes”, those messages have been explained and appropriate steps are provided.

The beginning of chapter 7 encompasses Mouth-to-Mouth Rescue Breathing. This method is different for adults and children, and infants. Those differences are highlighted. The instructions on Mouth-to-Mouth for children and adults, as well as Mouth-to-Mouth/Nose for infants, are explained step-by-step. 

The second part of chapter 7 discusses Rescue Breathing. Cardiac arrest is often preceded by respiratory distress and arrest. It is important to know this as an individual can be saved by preventing potential cardiac arrest.

Chapter 8 covers choking relief. The first lesson in chapter 8 focuses on choking in adults or children. Choking is a common but highly preventable cause of cardiac arrest. This lesson provides step-by-step instruction of what actions to take in the event of someone, adult or child, choking. 

The second lesson in chapter 8 covers choking in infants. Infants are defined as 0 to 12 months in age. The administration of care for a choking infant is described, step-by-step.