Why BLS and CPR Certification is Vital for Memphis Residents

 Memphis is a city full of life, music, and southern charm. But like any major metropolitan area, Memphis faces some big healthcare challenges when it comes to cardiac emergencies. Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the U.S. and can happen anywhere, anytime. When someone's heart stops beating, quick action through high-quality CPR and defibrillation can be the difference between life and death. Memphis residents have a civic duty to be prepared to take action in those crucial first few minutes until professional help arrives. Getting certified in basic life support (BLS) and CPR skills is one of the best ways you can be equipped to save a life when minutes matter most.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Memphis: Know the Stats

The statistics on sudden cardiac arrest paint a sobering picture for our community. According to the American Heart Association, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside hospitals each year in the U.S. About 90% of people who suffer an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest will die, and for every minute without CPR and defibrillation, chances of survival decrease by 7-10%.

Specifically in Memphis and greater Shelby County, the incidence of cardiac arrest is estimated to be around 36 per 10,000 people per year. Compared to the national average, our community's rate of cardiac arrest is alarmingly high. For African Americans in Memphis, rates are even higher.

Without rapid CPR and defibrillation with an AED, most victims of sudden cardiac arrest don't survive. But when more people are empowered to take immediate action, lives can be saved.

The Power of CPR: You Can Double or Triple Survival Odds

CPR is a simple, hands-on technique that keeps oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs when the heart stops beating normally. It helps buy crucial time until advanced care arrives. When administered immediately after cardiac arrest, CPR can potentially double or triple a victim's chance of survival.

According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR can boost survival rates to 10% or more for witnessed out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. Combining early CPR with the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) can increase survival rates to over 50% in some cases.

While emergency medical services do a heroic job, they often can't arrive fast enough. In many cases, the life of someone suffering cardiac arrest depends on an immediate responder starting CPR within the first critical minutes. The more Memphians who get certified in basic life support and CPR, the more lives we could save each year.

Where to Get BLS and CPR Certified in Memphis

Gaining these lifesaving skills is quick, convenient, and affordable through the American Heart Association. Local organizations like CPR Memphis offer AHA certification courses in BLS, CPR, and AED. Classes are held throughout Memphis each month, usually taking just a few hours to complete.

Most CPR Memphis classes are offered on weeknights or weekends to accommodate work schedules. Students receive their certification card on-site after successfully passing a skills exam and written test. Classes are open to the public and led by AHA-certified instructors. It's a small time investment that could prepare you to save a neighbor, stranger, coworker, or loved one when it matters most.

Many workplaces, schools, and community organizations in Memphis are also starting to mandate CPR and BLS training for staff members. Getting certified now can help you meet any potential job requirements. It also allows you to share these lifesaving techniques with others in your life.

Take Action: Get BLS & CPR Certified in Memphis

As Memphis residents, we all have to share the responsibility when it comes to public health and safety. Simple CPR techniques should be as widespread as basic first aid. Learning skills like hands-on CPR, AED use, and recognizing cardiac arrest warning signs truly empowers the average citizen to save lives.

The life you save in an emergency could be that of someone you love. Get equipped with the skills necessary to take immediate action when minutes count most. Sign up for an upcoming American Heart Association CPR class Memphis residents can depend on. CPR Memphis provides convenient BLS and CPR certification taught by AHA-licensed instructors. Enroll now and become part of the lifesaving solution in our community. Browse class dates and register online for your CPR class Memphis certification today.