ACLS Certification

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  1. This is a discussion on ACLS Certification in General Nursing Student, part of Nursing Student ... I am currently in my final year of nursing school and planning on working in an ICU after...

    by Nov 17, '11
    I am currently in my final year of nursing school and planning on working in an ICU after graduation. I was wondering if it is possible to get ACLS certification prior to passing the NLCEX? Do i have to wait a certain number of hours before i can try for ACLS? I have checked AHA and can't find and real descriptor on what requirements are needed.

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    by dfitz823 Nov 17, '11 12:51 pm
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  2. 6 Comments so far...

  3. Nov 17, '11 by
    I have heard a few people mention they got ACLS before graduating; I'm actually looking into doing that myself. I don't think you have to pass NCLEX before taking ACLS, but i'm not 100% sure.
  4. Admin
    Nov 17, '11 by
    No, you do not have to wait until you pass NCLEX. Good luck.
  5. Nov 17, '11 by
    yay someone else with my same question! Does anyone know if it is better to get ACLS certified online or through a hospital? I still have a semester of school left, and would like to get this completed if possible before i graduate to put on my resume
  6. Nov 17, '11 by
    Hi, as an ACLS instructor, I can tell you that you do not have to wait until after your NC LEX to take ACLS. It is just usually recommended that new grads wait so they could get some experience. But if you feel comfortable with rhythm interpretation then go for it.

    Good Luck
  7. Nov 21, '11 by
    There are no minimum qualifications for ACLS other than making sure your BLS is current. In ACLS you will be tested on the BLS survey. You also need to be comfortable with rhythm interpretation as that is not really the main focus of the ACLS course. If you are uncomfortable with rhythm interpretation, I suggest ECG Workout by Jane Huff RN which is a very informative book and offers a lot of practice.

    I suggest taking the course in a hospital as opposed to online. I think having an instructor is beneficial especially the first time around. Also, having ACLS prior to having a job is beneficial, but most employers require ACLS within a certain period of hire (such as within 6 months of employment or something) and most employers also pay for the course instead of having the cost come out of your own pocket. Just something to think about. Good luck!
  8. Nov 21, '11 by
    The best place would be to call the local rescue squad or training center. They are typically aware of the requirements.