Acls

Editorial Team / Admin · Jan 30, 2006

Hi. What should I study up on specifically for my 12hr ACLS class tomorrow? (NOT recertification--1st time taking). Do I need to memorize ALL the algorithms?
Tx
N.

Hello, noelle4,

Hmmm, did you receive a book and a study packet? Is it by the AHA?

purplemania, BSN, RN · Jan 30, 2006

You should have received a pre-test (if AHA course). That should help. You need to know what to do FIRST in a code situation, what drugs to push (or give PO). Your book gives various scenarios and outlines what is critical to know. You need to really know your book.

noelle4 · Feb 1, 2006

I passed (100%) whew..!

It wasn't so bad

Is PALS gonna be much different? What other certs should I be looking for (ER)?

One more ?...Is it reasonable to ask for help when I am faced w an unfamiliar procedure (say, pacing symptomatic bradycardia, or cardioverting, for instance) for the first time? Or, am I expected to go solo just because I was taught this on a mannikin?

Just wondering...

Tx

N.

Editorial Team / Admin · Feb 1, 2006

I passed (100%) whew..!
It wasn't so bad
Is PALS gonna be much different? What other certs should I be looking for (ER)?
One more ?...Is it reasonable to ask for help when I am faced w an unfamiliar procedure (say, pacing symptomatic bradycardia, or cardioverting, for instance) for the first time? Or, am I expected to go solo just because I was taught this on a mannikin?
Just wondering...
Tx
N.

Hello, noelle and congratulations.

Why wouldn't you ask for assistance with any procedure? Just because you have exhibited added knowledge about something doesn't mean you are proficient. Yes, you ask for help anytime. This should be done as a team anyway. The "code" scenerio you worked in the course was probably done with no prompting and you as the team leader. That was only to see how well you prepared for the course. Real life requires team work.

And, remember, the ACLS certification is not a license stating you are now an expert and can do everything in that book. It's just added knowledge.

You asked about other certs. Since you are in the ED, you need PALS, yes. And, NRP. Consider ACLS EP and BTLS. Then, CCRN.

Good luck.

SarasotaRN2b · Feb 2, 2006

NRP? Neonatal resuscitation P(?)?

VickyRN, MSN, DNP, RN · Feb 2, 2006

NRP? Neonatal resuscitation P(?)?

That is correct: Neonatal Resuscitation Program:

http://www.aap.org/nrp/nrpmain.html :)

purplemania, BSN, RN · Feb 3, 2006

Find out what is paid for and required by your department. Keeping up with a lot of certifications can be pricey, although I applaud your dedication.

openheartmom3 · Feb 5, 2006

One other certification that many of our ED nurses obtain is the TNCC. Hope this helps

noelle4 · Feb 5, 2006

Thank you everyone for your responses. They all help.:) I hope to get over a hurdle now (long story) and get all the certification I can...

Noelle