Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA), a longtime partner of the American Heart Association (AHA) in Tampa Bay, recently hosted a virtual hands-only CPR training for team members in support of AHA's Nation of Lifesavers Initiative. Led by Corey Hall, UMA's director of emergency medical technician (EMT) education, the training reflects UMA's longstanding focus on health care education while providing team members with practical skills to recognize cardiac emergencies and respond in a critical moment.

"UMA's partnership with the American Heart Association demonstrates a meaningful commitment to heart health education and emergency preparedness," said Katie Valone Development Director, AHA, Tampa Bay. "When more people know how to recognize cardiac arrest and respond quickly, communities are better equipped to save lives. We applaud UMA's focus on team member education."

UMA team members from 26 states, totaling 250 participants, attended the event, which focused on recognizing cardiac emergencies and performing hands-only CPR. According to the American Heart Association, more than half of people who experience cardiac arrest outside a hospital do not receive immediate CPR, underscoring the importance of expanding public awareness and preparedness.

"Hands-only CPR gives people the confidence and skills to take action during a critical moment," said Hall. "You do not need to be a medical professional to make a difference. Knowing what to do, calling 911 and beginning chest compressions are the most important steps to saving a life."

While UMA's EMT program includes more advanced clinical instruction, the hands-only CPR training was offered to team members throughout the organization as a community education initiative. By reaching hundreds of people through a virtual format, UMA helped expand awareness of CPR beyond the classroom and into the communities where team members live and work.

As a health care education institution, UMA recognizes the importance of preparing people to respond when every second matters. Supporting the AHA's Nation of Lifesavers initiative is one way UMA is applying its educational expertise and longstanding focus on health care to strengthen emergency preparedness and contribute as a community partner.