ACLS certification as a student

[petethecanuck]

Hi guys. Brief synopsis of where I'm at in the program: I start my final practicum in January and will be able to work as a grad nurse in April. I am writing the CRNE in June.

I have a question about the ACLS course. There is an ACLS instructor coming to the U of C in December offering a discounted group rate to 4th yr students and new grads. The course is only $350.00 so I'd save about $125.00.

I was wondering if it's worth it at this stage (about to start my final practicum) to take the ACLS course or would I be better off to wait until I've graduated, working on a unit for awhile and take the course later next year?

Thanks for any insight or advice!

cheers

[petethecanuck]

Thanks for the great replies, insight and discussion.

@bustin_mine

Yes it is through Canadian Travel Nurses and the instructor is doing a trip out to Alberta in December for testing. I was on the fence about taking this course and called the instructor to find out how the online learning and testing works etc.

She answered all my questions and i signed up.

I've finished the rhythm interpretation and advanced cardiac pharmacology courses and just started part 1 of the ACLS.

Thus far, I'm really enjoying it and learning heaps!

It could prove to be beneficial sooner rather then later as I may have a UNE job on a cardiac unit starting this Dec working casually in the winter during my final practicum.

As for the IV certification. Not sure how it is in other programs but at the U of C we get "certified" before starting our final practicum and can start IV's under the supervision of our preceptor.

As Fiona pointed out, still need to go through the hospital's iv certification as a new hire.

cheers :)