LVN taking ACLS?

[SaraO'Hara]

A nearby hospital is offering an initial ACLS certification course in May. Is there any reason, apart from being unable to perform IV pushes, that I shouldn't take the course? I realize that it may not be of immediate use in subacute rehab (although we have the occasional cardiac arrest), but I really enjoy learning about dysrhythmias, their treatment and effects, etc. Thoughts?

[WhoNeedsaShot?]

I took it as a medic, in LPN school now. The way I see it, never give up a chance to learn something more....... Even if it is out of your scope, its a very valuble class.

[flightnurse2b, LPN]

take it! i am a paramedic and also in LPN school. i am ACLS certified and will remain ACLS certified.

every LPN i have worked with in the hospital was required ACLS certification. i guess it depends where you work and what floor you work on as far as how much you will actually use it, but you should not pass up the chance to learn something new!

LPN's are very valuable in a code. there is SOOOOOO much more to it then just pushing meds! i hope you choose to take the class. :)

[SaraO'Hara]

Weeeelll, as I said to my husband - after getting off the phone with the hospital's education coordinator, who said I could, "but...", I'm tempted to take it just to tick her off. I plan to, believe me.

[Neveranurseagain, RN]

I took ACLS as an LVN but took a 1 mth arrythmia class first and it really helped. To learn all the arrythmias, meds/dosages and algorythms in a 1-2 day class would be difficult. Most ACLS classes give a quick review of arrythmias, but not enough if you don't know how to recognize arrythmias. But if you have your heart set on it, get a self guided. self paced ACLS book first and study, study, study. You want to be sucessful at the class to avoid the 'told you so!' from co workers. And it will give you a great sense of accomplishment when you complete it!

[mayrn82]

I would definitely go for it! It will definitely come in handy down the line in your career when you further your education. I currently work in an ER and my nurse educator says that is mandatory and will definitely help me when I get my RN. Good luck to you!:wink2:

[Medic/Nurse, BSN, RN]

NEVER.

NEVER.

NEVER.

Turn down any opportunity for additional education. Knowledge is always useful. Now, I always caution that a class does not allow nursing practice to change - but, I don't think you have any lack of clarity on your role, responsibility or practice authority.

Now, study and do great.

I always welcome one more set of well prepared hands.

Practice SAFE!

[mama_d, BSN, RN]

I'm a LPN and am required by my floor to be ACLS certified. It gave me alot more confidence when involved in code situations...I say go for it!

[Nurseboy1]

ACLS is simply at didactic way of teaching some organization into what invariably is a chaotic situation. It provides a thought platform for providing consistent and organized treatment for several lifethreating pre-arrest situations, and post-arrest management. It does not exist to teach new skills or to increase your skill set. Everyone who takes and passes the class is still bound by their individual scope of practice.

That being said, there is no reason for an LPN not to take ACLS. They can perform all BLS actions, as well as chart, and administer medications (although IV push meds are limited by state practice acts). The more people in a code situation with ACLS the better.

[sharona97, BSN, RN]

It's an awesome experience. I loved learning the protocols and then going through the demo's. I was intimitated at first when I thought about doing a skill I've never done before. But it was worth it. And the final exercise is worth it all, to be given a situation and you are in charge to take care of it. Scary but so very real!

I'd definetly take the course! Good Luck!