BLS Medical Abbreviation

BLS Medical Abbreviation

BLS stands for Basic Life Support. It refers to the immediate care provided to someone who is experiencing a life-threatening emergency such as cardiac arrest, choking, drowning, or severe allergic reaction until more advanced medical care is available. BLS typically involves the following basic interventions:

  • Checking the person's responsiveness
  • Activating emergency medical services (EMS)
  • Performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
  • Providing artificial ventilation
  • Controlling severe bleeding
  • Treating shock
  • Immobilizing suspected spine or limb injuries.

BLS is a critical skill set that can be provided by healthcare professionals, first responders, and trained bystanders. The prompt initiation of BLS can help stabilize a person's condition and improve their chances of survival.