How Can I Get a BLS Certification in Tennessee?

According to the Tennessee Department of Health, all emergency medical services personnel are required to maintain certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) procedures. BLS training teaches professionals how to recognize life-threatening emergencies and assist in the stabilization of the patient until full medical attention can be provided. This includes training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), methods to relieve choking and proper usage of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Certification expires and must be renewed after a period of two years.

Instructions

• 1

  Enroll in a Basic Life Support course for health care providers. Classes are offered at most colleges and universities. Courses are also offered to health care providers through many health care facilities.

• 2

  Purchase a student manual for the BLS course for health care providers before the commencement of the course and review the course material.

• 3

  Attend a four-hour training session and learn the skills required to administer BLS. Training will include instruction on adult and pediatric CPR, relieving foreign-body airway obstructions and proper use of an automated external defibrillator.

• 4

  Complete a written exam and skills test demonstrating competency in Basic Life Support procedures. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, a course completion card will be issued.