ACLS Megacode

[whichone'spink, BSN, RN]

Today I just completed ACLS for the first time in my fledgling career. It was very educational, and I feel confident that I'll have half an idea of what to do in a code besides compressions and respirations. The megacode experience was easier than I thought it would be. Almost too easy. The megacode consisted of the instructor asking me questions on what I would do with each algorithm, and he let the other people in my group give me hints if I needed it. Is this usually how ACLS is taught these days? I don't know, it just seemed weird.

And also, for those of you who are ACLS certified, do you think ACLS prepared you for dealing with code situations?

[JBudd, MSN]

Last time I took it, there were different stations for each area; mega codes were in the original (extremely tough) ACLS courses (which I did take then too). In real life, yes, we prompt each other and help, don't want to leave anything out by mistake. Our docs will look up during real codes and ask if anyone thinks we should do anything more or else?

It is a lot easier than it used to be, not nearly as many drugs or algorithms. Did it help? yes. I failed the written the first time (waaaay back when, 2 days, massive megacodes, tons of stress). But even then, I finally understood exactly what I was recording in codes, and what to expect. As a floor nurse, I hadn't really seen that many codes. My confidence and skill level went way up. I asked why they didn't use this in nursing school, and got a pitying look, because ah, ACLS was developed after my days in school.

[DemonWings]

When we ran our mega codes, we had a manikin that had real vital signs and a monitor to display the rhythm. We each ran our own code and no one was able to hint anything to us. They were fairly simple though, we just followed the algorhythm to the letter, and when the rhythm changed, we changed our course of treatment.

[Anna Flaxis, BSN, RN]

I think it varies from instructor to instructor. I've seen people pass ACLS who, in my opinion, shouldn't have, only because they didn't even have a good grasp of their BLS.

My last PALS class, the instructor didn't allow hints at all. I felt better about passing it because of that.

I think the Team Concept is important and all, and the class should be a supportive environment. But there is a fine line between encouraging teamwork and being supportive, and passing people that don't even have the slightest clue.

[Do-over, ASN, RN]

For me, participating in codes has prepared me for participating in codes.

And, it is definitely a team activity.

I don't think ACLS is much help in a vacuum, especially if you only do it every two years.

PS - don't dismiss the importance of effective compressions. If you don't circulate the blood (and the meds, and the O2) you got nothing.

[whichone'spink, BSN, RN]

It did seem like there were a lot of people who did not know their algorithms, or didn't know what to do in general. At least half of the class was like this. Since ACLS seems to be required for everyone these days, I guess that explains why the instructors have to take it easy and pass everyone who needs ACLS for their jobs.

My goal is to work in the ED or ICU one day. I hope I can find an ACLS course that is geared towards providers in those critical areas, when I renew in 2 years.

[GitanoRN, BSN, MSN, RN]

unquestionably, you had a decent instructor ours at the facility where i work his nickname is sargent!!! furthermore, he wouldn't allow any assistance from anyone if you're stuck in any given question or procedure, you would have to start from the beginning and realized what you did wrong. however, prior taking the exam he would allow the team concept in order to assist one another. needless to say, i think he gets a kick out of it, and most of the medical staff including doctors are a bit intimidating by him. therefore, every 2 yrs. i make sure that i'm spot on