What Are the Common Mistakes When Applying the BLS Algorithm?

In a cardiac emergency, every second matters. However, nearly 40% of bystanders hesitate to perform CPR because they’re afraid of making a mistake. Even those trained in Basic Life Support (BLS) can struggle under pressure. Mistakes like pressing too lightly during chest compressions or skipping key steps in the chain of survival can lower a person’s chances of recovery. The good news? You can avoid many of these errors with the right knowledge and practice.

Whether you're a healthcare worker, first responder, or someone trained in BLS certification course, knowing the most common mistakes and how to prevent them can help you respond with confidence. Let’s go over the key errors people make during BLS and what you can do differently.

A Quick Guide to the BLS Algorithm

The BLS algorithm is a quick, step-by-step guide for cardiac emergencies. First, call for help and make sure the area is safe. Then, check the victim’s airway, breathing, and circulation. If the person isn’t responding, start CPR. Give 30 chest compressions, followed by 2 breaths. If an AED is available, use it as soon as possible. Keep performing CPR until medical professionals arrive.

When giving chest compressions, push at least 2 inches deep and allow the chest to recoil fully. Make sure ventilations are effective. Following these steps increases the chances of survival. Practicing regularly builds confidence and reduces errors in real emergencies.

Common Mistakes in Applying the BLS Algorithm

Performing Basic Life Support (BLS) correctly can save lives. However, even trained responders can make mistakes, especially under stress. Errors in technique, hesitation, or misinterpreting guidelines can reduce CPR’s effectiveness. Recognizing these mistakes helps improve survival rates in cardiac emergencies. Here are some common errors and how to prevent them.

1. Not Calling Emergency Services

One of the biggest mistakes is delaying the call for help. The sooner emergency responders arrive, the better the chances of survival. If you suspect cardiac arrest, call emergency services immediately or have someone else do it. If you're alone, use your phone’s speaker mode so you can keep giving CPR while talking to the dispatcher.

2. Incorrect Hand Placement

Placing your hands incorrectly during chest compressions can make CPR less effective. For adults and children, put the heel of one hand in the center of the chest and place the other hand on top. In infants, use two fingers just below the nipple line. Poor hand placement can make compressions too shallow or off-center, reducing blood flow. Regular training helps build good habits and prevents this mistake.

3. Inadequate Chest Compressions

Compressions that are too shallow or too slow don’t circulate enough blood. For adults and children, push down at least 2 inches. For infants, about 1.5 inches is enough. Keep a steady pace of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Training and hands-on practice help ensure proper depth and speed.

4. Not Allowing the Chest to Recoil

Each compression should be followed by full chest recoil. This allows the heart to refill with blood before the next compression. If you don’t let the chest rise fully, the heart won’t pump efficiently. Make sure to lift your hands slightly between compressions to allow full recoil.

5. Ineffective Rescue Breaths

Rescue breaths help provide oxygen, but they must be done correctly. Tilt the head back slightly to open the airway, cover the victim’s mouth and nose (for infants), and give a breath that lasts about one second. Watch for the chest to rise. If it doesn’t, reposition the head and try again. Practicing on a mannequin can help improve technique.

6. Delaying CPR

Every second counts in cardiac arrest. Waiting too long to start CPR lowers the chances of survival. Begin compressions as soon as you recognize cardiac arrest. Training and practice help build confidence so you can act quickly.

7. Stopping CPR Too Soon

Stopping CPR too early can be life-threatening. Continue CPR until emergency responders arrive or the person shows clear signs of recovery, such as coughing or moving. If you stop too soon, their condition can worsen rapidly. Keep going, even if you feel tired, as every second matters.

8. Poor Communication in a Team Response

If multiple people are present, clear communication is key. Assign roles such that one person should call for help, another should start CPR, and someone should prepare an AED if available. Without coordination, responders may repeat tasks or miss steps, reducing CPR effectiveness.

9. Lack of Practice or Overconfidence

CPR is a skill that requires regular practice. If you don’t refresh your training, you may forget key steps or lose confidence in an emergency. Overconfidence can also lead to mistakes, like skipping steps or performing CPR incorrectly. Regular retraining helps keep your skills sharp and ready for real-life situations.

Strategies in the Prevention of Mistakes in BLS

Performing Basic Life Support (BLS) correctly requires both skill and good judgment. In high-pressure situations, even small mistakes can have serious consequences. That’s why it’s important to use strategies that improve accuracy and confidence.

Here are some key ways to minimize errors and improve BLS performance:

• Practice Regularly

Frequent training keeps your BLS skills sharp. Practicing often helps you build muscle memory, so you can act quickly and correctly under stress.

• Stay Up to Date

Make sure you follow the latest BLS guidelines. Always get updates from trusted sources to ensure you’re using the best methods.

• Use Visual Aids

Diagrams and videos make complex steps easier to understand. These tools reinforce proper technique, build confidence, and reduce mistakes.

• Train with Realistic Scenarios

Practice with emergency simulations that mirror real-life situations. This improves decision-making and prepares you to stay calm under pressure.

• Know Your Limits

Approach every situation with focus and awareness. If you need help, don’t hesitate to call for assistance. Knowing when to ask for support is just as important as acting quickly.

Avoiding Critical Errors in BLS Application

Using the Basic Life Support (BLS) algorithm correctly can save lives, but common mistakes can make it less effective. Errors like shallow chest compressions, incorrect hand placement, or an improper compression-to-ventilation ratio can lead to poor results. Delays in using an automated external defibrillator (AED) or failing to check for breathing and responsiveness can also slow down life-saving care. These mistakes usually happen due to lack of training, stress in emergencies, or outdated knowledge. Without regular practice, even trained responders may struggle to apply BLS correctly.

To provide the best care, you need regular training and hands-on practice. Repeating the correct steps helps you act quickly and confidently. Staying up to date with BLS guidelines and practicing in real-life scenarios will help you respond effectively when every second matters.