Questions on ACLS certification

[Mrs149]

Hello everyone,

After getting my RN license in 2010 I remained in my first career got married and started a family. FFWD 2013 I am now completing my BSN (2 more weeks at OU) and would like to get into nursing. I was thinking about getting my ACLS certification.

Has anyone taken the American Heart Association courses? I was thinking classroom because I would like the hands on experience. Any advice would be welcomed.

Thank you,

Mrs149

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

Be aware that www.skillstat has not updated their materials in more than years. American Heart is now using 2010 guidelines, not the 2000 guidelines on that website. You do not want to be confused by learning the wrong thing.

[SENSUALBLISSINFL, BSN, RN]

To the OP, I spent the money for the ACLS in hopes that it would boost my chances of getting a job, but it did not. I would wait on that, perhaps use the money to take a basic EKG course or a telemetry course; which I also have with no results on a job, but hopefully you will have better luck than I.

[kalevra, BSN, RN]

ACLS is easy.

1. Know how to identify rhythms. (you can get this done in 30 minutes)

2. Get the book and memorize the algorithm for VT/VF, PEA, Brady etc.

3. Apply all that critical thinking you have

4. Pass it. ( Start with chest compression while waiting for support/crash cart/ laser/ whatever)

It is really easy. You are in a BSN program, you can handle this.

[calivianya, BSN, RN]

I got my ACLS certification before I landed a nursing job, and I don't regret it. Yes, your employer will pay for it down the road if you need it and yes, it can be very tough and challenging to remember all of the different algorithms if you haven't seen them before, but if you are going to work in an area with frequent codes I think it's valuable preparation for your job. I have been hired in an ICU and I know I'm going to feel more confident going into a room with a decompensating patient if I can anticipate what may be done for the patient. Sure, we all know CPR but it requires more than that to save some people. I plan on reviewing the information for ACLS often so it stays fresh in my mind and I don't lose it.

[wish_me_luck, BSN, RN]

I recently applied for a job that ACLS was required. It was a med surg job. I do not have ACLS but I would get it, if I was offered the job. I do not have $200-250 lying around to just do it without promise of a job. These are certifications, so they also have to be renewed. Just something to think about.