Advanced Life Support vs. Basic Life Support

Advanced life support refers to the use of advanced medical technology and techniques to support or sustain a person's life. This can include things like mechanical ventilation, defibrillation, and CPR.

Basic life support, on the other hand, refers to the use of basic medical techniques to keep a person alive until advanced medical care can be provided. This includes things like CPR, the use of an AED (automated external defibrillator), and the use of basic first aid techniques to control bleeding or manage injuries.

Advanced life support is typically provided in a hospital setting, while basic life support is often provided by first responders such as paramedics or emergency medical technicians (EMTs) at the scene of an emergency.

Advanced life support can be more effective in saving lives, but basic life support can be a critical first step in stabilizing a person's condition before advanced care can be provided. Both are important in providing medical care in emergency situations.