If a child goes into cardiac arrest, rescuers certified in Basic Life Support (BLS) can save the child’s life if they act quickly. In such a scenario, having multiple BLS-certified rescuers on the scene who can follow the pediatric BLS algorithm for cardiac arrest would be even more helpful. The BLS pediatric cardiac arrest algorithm provides instructions for two certified rescuers. When these two rescuers follow the algorithm and work as a team, they maximize the chances of keeping the child alive until help arrives.
With two BLS-certified responders on the scene, they can also work together to save time. One rescuer can remain with the victim and begin life support measures as needed. The other can call emergency services for help and retrieve any equipment that might be required, like a defibrillator. By separating tasks, the first rescuer can begin life support sooner. In addition, the second rescuer will deliver any equipment they might need, so the first rescuer won’t have to stop giving life support to gather gear.
The benefits of multiple BLS-certified rescuers are clear, but it is also imperative that the rescuers communicate. They must immediately and clearly identify who is the first rescuer and who is the second rescuer. If both rescuers believe they are second, they may both head for the equipment and leave the victim unattended and without life support.