1. Understand the Requirements:
    • BLS: Basic Life Support is often required for healthcare professionals and covers essential skills like CPR, using an AED, and managing choking. CPR can be learned by anyone, even children, to give them the tools to identify and address a cardiac emergency..
    • ACLS: Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support includes advanced techniques and focuses on the management of cardiac arrest, stroke, and other cardiovascular emergencies. This is a specialized skill 
  2. Find Certification Providers:
    • American Heart Association (AHA): This is the BLS provider that most hospitals will require prior to employment. It’s the most commonly accepted certification, making it the most useful.
    • Red Cross: This provider will give you a certification in CPR, but not in BLS. This is a good option if AHA-approved classes are not available to you or if you do not plan to use your CPR skills for employment.
  3. Enroll in a Course:
    • Zenith Career Services offers both BLS and ACLS certifications approved by the AHA. Locations are available in Stockton and Bakersfield.
    • The American Heart Association and Red Cross websites are great resources to find classes near you.
  4. Take the Courses:
    • Attend the classes and complete any required hands-on training. Ensure you are participating actively, as practical skills are a crucial part of the certification.some text
      • BLS classes are 4 hours & ACLS classes are 8 hours at Zenith Career Services.
    • Be sure to ask any questions that you have about CPR, it’s better to know than to wonder!
  5. Pass the Exams:
    • BLS: Typically involves a written test and a skills demonstration.
    • ACLS: Usually includes a written exam and a skills test involving scenarios and practical application.
  6. Maintain Certification:
    • Both BLS and ACLS certifications need to be renewed every 2 years. Stay updated on recertification requirements and take refresher courses as needed.
  7. Apply Your Certification:
    • Employment: With BLS and ACLS certifications, you’ll be eligible for roles in hospitals, clinics, emergency services, and other healthcare settings.
    • Volunteering: You can also use your skills in community settings, schools, or volunteer organizations.
    • Emergencies: You never know when cardiac emergencies will happen. Being trained in CPR can help you save the lives of your loved ones if the worst happens. 

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