ACLS on the computer

JJEDRN · Oct 25, 2007

I don't have any experience in this, but I am looking forward to the responses.

My bride, an RN, just did an online BLS recert and was very impressed with the course.

Our local ACLS Instr. accepted her BLS for recert.

Is there a specific program or licensing company you'll be going with?

Or is this a program you'll create?

Thanks,

JJ

cmo421 · Oct 25, 2007

Has anyone here ever had to take ACLS on the computer? Refresher and/or initial course. This is something my hospital is starting and will be up and running by Dec. 1...................and they dropped it in my lap to take care of it.....some nonsense in the contract about educating fellow employees when you are a core person in your area.....oh well such is life.:
Just hoping for some opinions.
Thanks

I have had people with online course completion. As far as I know, according to the AMA,to obtain a valid card,one must perform a megacode and prove passing in rhythms and meds. The review and test from online is accepted in most areas. This may very from facility to facility. But I believe that have to follow the AHA recommendations. I would contact your local AHA for help and guidlines. I would also check on JACHO regulations with this. Things change so fast,it is hard to keep up. The new standards are on a cd and it is a view and do type of thing. Stations and a megacode are still done group style.

Good luck ,you have alot of work cut out for you and a short time period!

RunnerRN, BSN, RN · Oct 25, 2007

I just did my ACLS recert last week on the computer. I was really nervous about it at first, but once you get into the groove of working a code on the computer, and figure out what you're doing, it is much easier. You go through 10 scenarios....from a VF/VT megacode, to stable MI, to DNR, unstable MI, stroke, afib, brady, tachycardia, etc. They're looking for you to do certain things in each scenario (for ex: with the MI, checking a troponin and sending to cath lab is a must do, but a beta blocker is just a bonus).

At the end, you have to do CPR and ventilations on a dummy, and the machine critiques you. There is also a 25 question written test. I took about 3 hours to do the whole thing, but I know it can take people up to 8 hours.

Like I said though, once you get yourself into the groove of working on the computer, you're fine. You can have your books in the room.

budger1983 · Oct 25, 2007

The program we are using is from Laerdal Medical and is accredited by AHA and accepted by JCAHO, the program is quite impressive as far as the detail and requirements to pass ... but I am getting some grumblings from co-workers that it is not the same as hands on........(possibly because in the classroom you have someone to hold your hand) so to speak......this program allows 32 hours for completion.

Thanks for your replies......still want all opinions good or otherwise

Jeff

cmo421 · Oct 25, 2007

Wow, nice for all. Cuts down on the nerves and such. Still do not love the whole idea, Ithink live interaction is best. But its the way of the world.I am gonna look at the program myself .Thanks!

classicdame, MSN, EdD · Oct 25, 2007

BEWARE!!!! There are sites out there offering ACLS and BLS renewals, but they are not sanctioned by American Heart Asso and if your employer requires AHA you have wasted your money.

Also, the courses are not online. You may purchase the CD from AHA )http://www.americanheart.org). They send a CD for you to study and test from, but the certificate is only a pass to get you into a real sure-nuf class for competency assessment. You MUST go to a certified instructor for the check-off portion. There is a time limit from test date to competency check-off. We recommend the student contact us about check-off dates available (usually in conjunction with a class).

CPR does not have a format to just do competency checks. The course is designed around a video/DVD. So you might have to pay for the CD to do the didactic and then pay for the instructor and attend a full class anyway. Better check with your educators before proceeding.

Dorito, ASN, RN · Oct 25, 2007

BEWARE!!!! There are sites out there offering ACLS and BLS renewals, but they are not sanctioned by American Heart Asso and if your employer requires AHA you have wasted your money.
Also, the courses are not online. You may purchase the CD from AHA )http://www.americanheart.org). They send a CD for you to study and test from, but the certificate is only a pass to get you into a real sure-nuf class for competency assessment. You MUST go to a certified instructor for the check-off portion. There is a time limit from test date to competency check-off. We recommend the student contact us about check-off dates available (usually in conjunction with a class).
CPR does not have a format to just do competency checks. The course is designed around a video/DVD. So you might have to pay for the CD to do the didactic and then pay for the instructor and attend a full class anyway. Better check with your educators before proceeding.

Nicely said! I coordinate the ACLS courses at my facility and I only found one site that provides an AHA ACLS card...it's pricey. And you do have to go to a site and be checked off on the Mega Code. We provide free ACLS classes to our staff and if some have taken the course online they must attend the ACLS course we have and complete the Mega code with the rest of the class.

Several times they thought our instructors should set up a private mega code on their own time but we've stuck together in this. Also, if they take the computer course they must pay for it themselves.

How much can you learn taking ACLS when your books are right there in front of you. How often do we have our books at the bedside when a patient codes?