If you’re preparing to get CPR certified, it’s important to know that not all CPR courses are the same. The American Heart Association (AHA) offers different certification levels depending on your role — and choosing the wrong one could delay employment or training.
At Florida Health Science Consulting, we offer both BLS for Healthcare Providers and Heartsaver CPR AED for the general public. Here’s everything you need to know about the differences so you can select the right course for your goals.
What Is CPR Certification and Why Is It Important?
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a critical lifesaving skill used to keep oxygen and blood flowing during cardiac arrest. AHA CPR certification ensures that individuals — both medical professionals and civilians — are trained to respond quickly and effectively in emergencies.
But the training and expectations differ between those in clinical settings and those in community or workplace roles.
What Is BLS Certification for Healthcare Providers?
BLS stands for Basic Life Support and is the required CPR certification for anyone working in the medical or emergency response field.
Who Needs BLS?
- Nurses and nursing students (RN, LPN)
- CNAs, CMAs, EMTs, and paramedics
- Medical and dental assistants
- Physicians and pre-med students
- Hospital and clinical staff
- Firefighters and law enforcement
What BLS Certification Includes:
- Adult, child, and infant CPR techniques
- Use of an AED in a clinical environment
- 2-rescuer scenarios and team-based response
- Rescue breathing and use of a bag-valve mask (BVM)
- Relief of choking in responsive and unresponsive victims
BLS certification is mandatory for most healthcare jobs, internships, and clinical programs.
What Is Heartsaver CPR AED for Non-Healthcare Providers?
Heartsaver CPR AED is designed for the general public, workplace employees, and community members who want to learn CPR for personal or professional reasons — but not in a medical setting.
Who Needs Heartsaver?
- Teachers and school staff
- Childcare workers and babysitters
- Fitness trainers and coaches
- Corporate employees and security personnel
- Camp counselors and lifeguards
- Parents, guardians, and caregivers
What Heartsaver Certification Includes:
- Hands-only CPR for adults, children, and infants
- Proper use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
- How to recognize cardiac arrest and respond
- Choking relief techniques
- Emergency response basics for non-clinical settings
Heartsaver certification is ideal for workplace safety compliance, licensing requirements, or simply being prepared to save a life.
How to Choose the Right CPR Class for Your Role
| If You Are… | Choose This Course |
|---|---|
| A healthcare professional or clinical student | BLS for Healthcare Providers |
| Applying to nursing, medical, or PA school | BLS for Healthcare Providers |
| A teacher, childcare provider, or fitness instructor | Heartsaver CPR AED |
| A parent, community member, or babysitter | Heartsaver CPR AED |
| Required to meet OSHA workplace CPR compliance | Heartsaver CPR AED |
Still unsure? Contact us and we’ll help you determine which CPR certification is right for you.
Why Train With Florida Health Science Consulting?
All CPR courses at Florida Health Science Consulting are:
- Authorized by the American Heart Association
- Offered in blended, and in-person formats
- Taught by experienced medical professionals
- Paired with same-day AHA eCards upon completion
Whether you’re entering the medical field or simply want to be prepared, we’ll ensure your training is accurate, convenient, and nationally recognized.
👉 Get CPR Certified Today
Don’t wait until an emergency happens — prepare now with the right CPR certification.
Browse our upcoming courses and register now