The primary purpose of the American Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/ CPR/ AED program is to help participants recognize and respond appropriately to cardiac, breathing and first aid emergencies. The courses in this program teach participants the knowledge and skills needed to give immediate care to an injured or ill person and to decide whether advanced medical care is needed.

The purpose of the Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS) course is to ensure that individuals with a duty to respond (public safety professionals and healthcare providers) have the knowledge and skills necessary to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies. The course emphasizes active, hands-on learning and uses scenario activities to help participants learn how to provide CPR, use an AED and relieve an obstructed airway for adult, child and infant patients.