ACLS certified before applying for new grad programs?

U.S.A. California

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Hey all!

I'm from out of state and was wondering if you CA new grad RN's already have your ACLS. Do you guys already have this prior to applying for the new grad programs? Or wait till the hospital give you the classes/ pay for them?

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I did ACLS, PALS, and NRP immediately upon graduation.

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Only had BLS and EKG certs

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I had nothing. New grad programs here pay for it all.

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Specializes in Psych ICU, addictions.

If you want to get ACLS certification and can afford to do it, go for it. It can't hurt and could make you more competitive in a tough job market, especially in this day and age of cutbacks. Yes, employers will usually (not always) pay for ACLS, etc., if it are required for your job...however, the new grad's main problem is getting the job in the first place.

Also, you don't need to be a working nurse--or even a nurse period--to have ACLS. They're open to anyone.

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Most programs that I have applied prefer and sometimes require you to have ACLS and PALS to even apply...but maybe it depends the area where you live.

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