[chenoaspirit]

I was just ACLS trained and will now have much more responsibility, which is fine. But the way they did the class....they whizzed us through it so fast we really didnt learn much. I am not comfortable holding such a creditation knowing I am expected to know more than I really do. We all left there feeling like we lost out. Is there anywhere online to do practice tests and study?

[DutchgirlRN]

Shortly after finishing my first ACLS certification I felt exactly like you. My first code after ACLS proved I did learn something. I don't think anyone retains the info like the instructors because after all that's all they do.

[RN-Cardiac]

There are serveral sites that offer "Mega Code Simulators" they can be helpful,.but Dutchgirl is right,.when it happens you will be supprised at just how much you learned!!

[caliotter3]

I'm taking my ACLS class next week. I found this book in the bookstore: Mastering ACLS, 2d Ed., published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins ISBN 978-1-58255-363-4. It lists these sites (pg. 5) for ACLS simulators: MDchoice.com,heartinfo.org,embbs.com, and acls.net

I haven't tried those sites yet, but I guess anything would help. I understand how you feel. Any new skill or knowledge, if not used, is more something to worry about, than to feel confident about. That's how I see it.

Did you buy the little handbook? I got it. If I ever needed it, it would be in my pocket, and you're right in thinking I'd be looking something up if they were depending on me! I hope you never get a situation where you have to experience this the hard way.

[DutchgirlRN]

Originally Posted by caliotter3

Did you buy the little handbook? I got it. If I ever needed it, it would be in my pocket, and you're right in thinking I'd be looking something up if they were depending on me! I hope you never get a situation where you have to experience this the hard way.

I'm not trying to be catty just totally honest. You won't have time to look anything up. Trust me.
I do appreciate the links. They'll be useful for my next renewal class.

[jamato8]

While you are ACLS certified if your hospital or unit operates safely they are not going to expect you to go beyond your ability and that translates into actual experience. With my first ACLS certification I watched a lot and then started to participate. I have been in many codes and pumped on many chests, one for 45 minutes (way too long a code). You should know what to do at first of course but as the code progresses it is time to watch and learn. All the nurses on the floor I worked had to be ACLS certified but not all were comfortable and with pt safety first, this was not a problem but they were expected to watch, and then start to participate.

[adidasgirl0699]

Thanks for the sites and the reassurance! As I take my ACLS next week and was beginning to worry I won't feel competent when it comes time to code.

[Indy]

No one is really ready to participate in a code. The patients just sorta spring it on ya, and you do your best.

[TazziRN]

And keep in mind that you will not be alone. There will be other staff with you, and at least one will probably have some code experience. Even if you're the senior, all of you can put your heads together. Plus, the doc is almost always there too.

[chenoaspirit]

Thanks for all the great info. The sad thing is that our hospital doesnt really practice safely. The med/surg nurses are pulled to ICU with no prior orientation to the unit. I have been pulled there a few times and felt sick the entire night, scared something will come up. I am off to check out those sites! You are right though, I will never be alone, thank God.