Can GVN's get ACLS certification?

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Specializes in Emergency.

Hello Everyone,

I have an interview on Friday in the ER and was just curious to know if I could become ACLS certified while still in school. I graduate next month and I know the ER likes having their staff ACLS and PALS certified. I was going to let that be one of my questions at the end of the interview and ask if the hospital is offering it but I didn't want to look dumb if GVN's/LVN's can't even get it. Thanks for your help and if you have any interview question or scenerios you think might be asked, I would greatly appreciate you sharing. Thanks again!

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I would think the answer is NO because ACLS drugs are given IV....might vary from state to state though

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Specializes in ICU, PICC Nurse, Nursing Supervisor.

im sure you can ...i know lvn's can get acls certified....

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Specializes in ICU, ER, EP,.

Generally when ACLS is a job requirement you have 6months to a year upon hire to take the test. This is because you need some exposure and experience. Could you pass it just by studying the book? Anyone could I suppose, but you'll be taking on something more difficult than you need to make it.

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You can become certified in ACLS but how much you will actually be able to do in a code situation will depend on what your BON and facility actually allow.

Some people have gotten their ACLS in an effort to make themselves more marketable but I'm not sure how much difference it really makes with a new grad, I suppose it varies by location. In my area, it's expected that a new grad won't have ACLS and the hospital schedules it during or shortly after orientation.

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Specializes in Labor & Delivery.

Having more knowledge is never a waste of time. The more you know the better off you are. I have taken ACLS twice. The initial class, then recert. When I recert I take the full class though because I need the review of info to pass the test, and to just refresh my knowledge . I took ACLS as a brand new nurse and did fine! I would encourage you to take it. Here in NC LPN's push most meds IV. There are just a few they don't push and i'm not sure if this is dictated by BON or hospital policy where I live. Hope you take the class and enjoy it.

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I'll quote sandwich, having more knowledge is never a waste of time. Giving IV medications in a code is actually one small part of a crazy mad house of activity!

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Sorry, it is sandwitch.

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Yes, you can take ACLS...go to the American heart association website and you can enter your zip code to find a local class. I did it while I was in school and it really helped me when I started working in the ICU.

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Specializes in Emergency.

Thanks Everyone, I will look into when there is a class available. I will keep this as a question for the interview tomorrow as well so she knows I am intrested in becoming certified. Thanks again!

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