When it comes to emergency medical care in nursing homes, understanding the differences between Basic Life Support (BLS) and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and ensuring proper preparedness, is critical for resident safety. Nursing homes must maintain trained staff, functional crash carts, and AEDs while complying with CMS F-tags and E-tags. This blog explains the differences between BLS and CPR, the role of AEDs and crash carts, and what surveyors look for during inspections.

What is CPR?

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique used when a person’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing. It involves chest compressions and rescue breaths to restore circulation and oxygenation. CPR is a specific procedure that can be taught to both healthcare professionals and laypeople. In nursing homes, surveyors expect staff to respond immediately and appropriately when CPR is required, unless a valid DNR is in place.

What is BLS?

Basic Life Support (BLS) is broader than CPR. It includes CPR but extends to other critical interventions such as:

• Airway management (keeping the airway clear).
• AED use to restore heart rhythm.
• Initial assessment of cardiac or respiratory arrest.

BLS is designed for healthcare professionals and is part of maintaining compliance with CMS staffing and training requirements.

Key Differences Between BLS and CPR

• Scope: CPR is one component of BLS. BLS includes AED use and airway management.
• Training Level: CPR can be taught to laypeople. BLS training is more advanced, required for healthcare staff.
• Application: BLS is typically performed in healthcare settings with equipment, while CPR can be used anywhere.

Why Nursing Home Preparedness Matters

Cardiac emergencies require seconds, not minutes. Preparedness is more than just having staff—it’s about training, equipment, and documented systems. CMS holds facilities accountable through F-tags and E-tags tied to CPR, crash carts, AEDs, and training programs.

AEDs in Long-Term Care

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) deliver shocks to restore heart rhythm. While not universally required, they are a best practice and align with F678 (CPR and emergency equipment). Key expectations include:

• Availability: AEDs must be functional, with regular battery and pad checks.
• Training: BLS-certified staff must know how to use AEDs, supporting F726 (competent staff).

Despite cost and regulatory debate, AEDs save lives and demonstrate proactive compliance.

Crash Cart Compliance in Nursing Homes

A crash cart ensures life-saving medications, oxygen, and equipment are immediately available. Common contents include epinephrine, IV supplies, ambu bags, and suction devices.

• F678 requires crash carts to be functional and ready.
• F880 applies to sterile supplies and infection control.
• E0015 covers emergency supplies and equipment under CMS Appendix Z.

Facilities must conduct daily crash cart checks, log expiration dates, and restock immediately after use. Surveyors frequently cite facilities for expired or missing crash cart items.

CMS Regulations: F-Tags and E-Tags You Need to Know

• F678 (CPR): Requires immediate CPR, AEDs, and emergency equipment unless contraindicated.
• F726 (Competent Staff): Ensures staff are trained and able to respond to emergencies.
• F947 (Training): Requires ongoing in-service education, including CPR and BLS with hands-on practice.
• F880 (Infection Control): Applies to the maintenance of crash carts and sterile supplies.
• F841 (Medical Director): Holds leadership accountable for emergency response policies.

E-Tags:

• E0015: Facilities must maintain adequate emergency equipment and supplies.
• E0024: Requires drills, training, and testing to ensure staff preparedness.

Who Should Be Trained in BLS and CPR?

• All clinical staff: Nurses, CNAs, and direct care providers must maintain BLS certification.
• New hires: Must be trained promptly to avoid gaps during emergencies.
• Non-clinical staff: Optional, but CPR-trained housekeeping or administrative staff increase preparedness.
• Frequency: BLS training every two years, with emergency drills conducted regularly.

How SMK Medical Supports Facilities

At SMK Medical, we specialize in preparing facilities before surveyors walk through the door. Our services include:

• Education & Training: Hands-on BLS, CPR, and AED training for staff.
• Auditing: Crash cart audits, supply checks, and staff certification reviews.
• Mock Surveys: Comprehensive mock surveys aligned with CMS F-tags and E-tags.
• Consulting: Guidance to ensure your emergency preparedness systems meet CMS standards.

We know that surveyors don’t just look at whether equipment is present—they check if it works. That’s where our expertise makes the difference.

Conclusion

Understanding the distinction between BLS and CPR, maintaining functional crash carts and AEDs, and ensuring staff readiness are all critical to nursing home safety. CMS regulations, including F678, F726, F947, and F880, hold facilities accountable for being prepared when seconds matter.

At SMK Medical, we help facilities stay compliant, prepared, and survey-ready through training, education, auditing, and mock surveys.

📞 Call us at 313-314-8267 to schedule your free consultation today.