Worth it to get ACLS before graduation?

[dee789]

Hi all, I am a current nursing student in an ABSN program, I graduate next May. I'm really interested in going into the ER after I graduate, however I know it's very competitive and may not be the most realistic goal. I'd still like to try.

To increase my chances of an ER hiring me, would you all recommend that I get a certification like ACLS before graduating? I have heard both ways ... that it helps, and that it doesn't matter and you should let your employer pay for it after hiring.

Any advice?

Thanks!

[zmansc, ASN, RN]

I got my ACLS just prior to my last year in RN school, but I don't think it was the deciding factor on me getting my job in the ER.

We have hired quite a few new grads into our ER over the years, many were either techs in the ER, or EMTs, so we had a good understanding of their knowledge, skills, work ethic, and teamwork. I can't think of a single one of those that was a bad hire. We did have a few new grad hires that we didn't have experience with, and those have been more hit or miss. So, my suggestion would be to get hired into the ER in any capacity you can and work your butt off. Of course your mileage may vary, each ER and each management staff has a different idea on how to do hiring.

[BiotoBSNtoFNP]

I got my ACLS and PALS right before graduating with my BSN. I think it definitely helped me with my job search because I was able to demonstrate to future employers that I was highly motivated and went "above and beyond" the requirements as a new grad. Although there were definitely employers who didnt care as they stated that they pay for these upon higher.

For me, the $150ish it costs to take ACLS was worth it for me to stand out a bit but many of my classmates were not as convinced as I was.

I don't think that the certification is nearly as important as the learning.

The learning in ACLS *can* be very good... or kind of lame... depending on who is teaching the class.

If you can find a good one, generally through the continuing education department at a hospital, go for it.

For anyone reading this in Northern California, the ACLS/PALS classes through Napa's Queen of the Valley hospital are excellent.

[BiotoBSNtoFNP]

Going off of what music said, yes you definitely want to be prepared and succeed in the class to really understand the rhythms and algorithms. You don't just want to take it just to pass the class and add it to your credentials. Be committed to Understanding and learning the material is the ultimate goal to advance your nursing knowledge if you choose to pursue it.