ACLS first time, on line or in person?

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Jul 6, 2010

You will probably NOT find a 100% online legitimate ACLS course; how else would you participate in the megacodes and demonstrate the skills? :) I'll wager the best you'll find is a hybrid course, where the lecture component may be online but the skills will need to be done in person.

IMO for the first time, go to an in-person course so you become familiar with everything. For renewals, then you can do the online hybrid.

J.silverstein · Jul 7, 2010

A lot of ACLS/PALS courses that are 100% online are NOT accredited by the American Heart Association. Read the fine print. Most employers will only accept AHA certification.

annacat · Jul 7, 2010

Thanks for your advice. Makes sense to me! Do you have any suggestions about going about finding such a hybrid course?

caliotter3 · Jul 7, 2010

Do an internet search for ACLS courses in your area and the providers will show up, then just check out their websites or give them a call.

annacat · Jul 7, 2010

Thanks!

When I do that I get a lot of online courses, I will keep looking!

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Jul 9, 2010

Call the AHA. The listings and schedule of classes on their website is often out of date; by calling you can get more information about AHA-accredited ACLS course providers.

ck637143 · May 29, 2012

I am interested in getting ACLS certified for the first time. Is it considered adequate to to an online course or should I find an in person course?

the AHA provides heart code: which is an online ACLS and you do a skills test with an outside one that is accredited by the AHA

FlyingScot, RN · May 29, 2012

On-line ACLS, even the hybrid version, is not the way to go as a first-timer. There is nobody to answer questions or clear up confusion. You will have no practice time doing a mega-code and will be expected to be proficient when you go to test.