Basic Life Support and Safe Use of an Automated External Defibrillator

Course Overview

Our Level 2 Basic Life Support and Safe Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) course, regulated by Ofqual, is a concise 3-hour training designed to equip participants with essential life-saving skills. Awarded by Qualsafe, this course provides practical, hands-on experience in managing cardiac emergencies with confidence and skill.

Course Highlights:

• Basic Life Support (BLS): Learn how to perform effective Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) on adults, helping to maintain blood flow and breathing in critical situations.

• Safe AED Use: Gain the skills to safely operate an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) with guidance on pad placement, device operation, and post-shock care.

• Realistic Simulations: Practice life-saving techniques through scenario-based exercises to build confidence in using CPR and AED skills in real-life emergencies.

• Ofqual-Regulated Certification: On successful completion, participants receive a Level 2 nationally recognised certification, valid for one year, meeting workplace requirements for AED competence.

Ideal for individuals in any workplace or community setting, this course ensures participants are prepared to respond quickly and effectively in cardiac emergencies, potentially saving lives.

Course Syllabus

This 3-hour Qualsafe Level 2 course provides participants with essential skills in Basic Life Support (BLS) and the safe use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), preparing them to respond effectively in cardiac emergencies. Here’s an outline of what the course covers:

1. Introduction to Basic Life Support (BLS)

• Understanding the Chain of Survival: Learning the steps in the Chain of Survival to maximise a casualty’s chances of survival.

• Primary Survey and Scene Assessment: Assessing the safety of the scene, approaching the casualty, and determining the best course of action.

• Patient Assessment: Learning how to check for responsiveness, breathing, and other critical signs.

2. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

• Adult CPR Techniques: Step-by-step guidance on performing effective chest compressions and rescue breaths, ensuring proper hand placement, depth, and rate.

• Compression-Only CPR: Recognising when and how to provide compression-only CPR if rescue breaths are not possible.

• Practice with Realistic Manikins: Hands-on practice with manikins to build confidence and accuracy in delivering CPR.

3. Safe Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

• Understanding AEDs: Introduction to AEDs, including how they work and their importance in cardiac arrest situations.

• Operating an AED Safely: Hands-on training on switching on the AED, placing the pads correctly, following the device prompts, and delivering a shock safely.

• Post-Shock Care: Understanding what to do after an AED shock, including re-assessment and continued CPR if needed.

• Troubleshooting and AED Maintenance: Basic troubleshooting tips and AED maintenance advice to ensure the device is ready for use.

4. Dealing with an Unconscious Breathing Casualty

• Recovery Position: How to correctly position an unconscious but breathing casualty to maintain an open airway and reduce the risk of complications.

• Monitoring Vital Signs: Ongoing monitoring and reassessment of the casualty’s condition while waiting for emergency services to arrive.

This course is designed to be practical and straightforward, with realistic scenarios that help participants gain confidence in applying BLS and AED skills in real-life situations. Upon completion, participants receive an Ofqual-regulated Level 2 certification, valid for one year, acknowledging their competency in these critical life-saving skills.

Certification

Upon completion of the required practice assessments (x2) you will be awarded a Level 2 Award in Basic Life Support and Safe Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (RQF) which is valid for 1 year.

Pre-entry Criteria

This qualification is for people who have a specific interest at work, or in a voluntary and community activities (e.g. first aider), in being able to provide effective BLS when dealing with an emergency situation which may require the use of an AED. All learners are required to be at least 14 on the first day of this course.