ACLS or PALS

WntrMute2 · Jan 2, 2004

yes, I got my ACLS for the first time in nursing school. PALS also is available. You pay and that's that.

haa · Jan 2, 2004

Could you tell me where I can get a training class or books for preparation? How can I register for the exam?

Thank you in advance for your input!

haa

pleasetakeme · Jan 3, 2004

Call the american heart association for classes near you.. Or local hospitals education depts... I have both but can be done with out experience.

javajunkie · Jan 3, 2004

You can also find a class by going to http://www.americanheart.org and clicking on 'CPR & ECC' on the left-hand column. I have not taken PALS but I waited until I started working as an R.N. to take ACLS.

I would advise waiting until you are working to take either. Some of the ACLS pharm content you would probably not use much outside of an emergency situation, but some of the drugs you might use a lot such as esmolol and amiodarone day-to-day in the unit. I just think it helps more to remember if you are using the drugs frequently, which you are probably not as a student.

Also, if wait until you have a job as a nurse, more than likely, your facility will pay for it. ACLS is about $200.

Good luck!

Christina

haa · Jan 3, 2004

Pleasetakeme, javajunkie

Thank you very much!

jewelcutt · Jan 4, 2004

I just signed up for a PALS class through Life Support Services. They have classes all over the country mostly on weekends. Sorry I don't know the website but it is easily found on a search engine. It costs 175$ and they send you all materials. It is really hard otherwise to find a PALS course because they don't offer them often.

Havin' A Party!, ASN, RN · Jan 4, 2004

I'm very interested in these courses too. But I'll wait until the hospital or other facility is willing to pay my way.