ACLS, PALS and others

WSU_Ally_RN, BSN, RN · Jul 14, 2007

Where I work, my NM wanted me to be working at least 6 months before I took these classes. They are pretty challenging, and having a little understanding of how a code actually runs helps before you go to the classes. Plus, most hospitals will pay for you to take the classes... If I were you, I would wait. Good Luck!

Roy Fokker, BSN, RN · Jul 14, 2007

Where I work, my NM wanted me to be working at least 6 months before I took these classes. They are pretty challenging, and having a little understanding of how a code actually runs helps before you go to the classes. Plus, most hospitals will pay for you to take the classes... If I were you, I would wait. Good Luck!

I agree.

I don't mean to sound "harsh" but please, give yourself a little bit of "time" to "adjust" to "nursing"... before you think of advanced certifications and qualifications.

I; in no way, shape, or form; am suggesting that you will be "unable" to handle such nursing and advanced cardiac care --- I'm merely stating my humble opinion that before you handle "Advanced life support", you ought to have your "basic life support" (including assessments) down pat.

cheers,

Roy

NeosynephRN · Jul 14, 2007

I agree...I graduated in May and started in the ICU. I will be taking ACLS...but not for another month and a half...and I will have EKG class before that. My manager said it is very overwhelming to do them before you have a grip on the basics on a floor where you would use them. Besides...this way I get them for free...and I get paid to take them!!

purplemania, BSN, RN · Jul 14, 2007

It is possible but you may be setting yourself for disappointment. The only pre-req is a current Healthcare Provider CPR card. There is a pre-test. We recommend our staff to make a passing grade on that before attempting the courses. You will not learn the material during the class. You have to know it when you come in. There is a CD with lots of prep work. I do not recommend either course for new nurses but some have taken it and passed. Some who passed regretted it because they put themselves under a lot of stress when it was not required of them.