ACLS

allnurses Guide · Aug 17, 2009

I got a lot of things to read before hand, as well as a pre-test to do to prepare.

Then you watch scenario videos, and go around different code stations, acting out various roles (CPR, drugs, recorder, team leader etc). At the end, there's a written test, of which if I recall correctly you have to get 80% correct.

When I redid mine recently (first time in the US), I found it interactive, enjoyable and collaborative.

EDIT: Mine was a renewal, not a initial provider class, so may be a little different structure, sorry!!

Pediatric Critical Care Columnist · Aug 17, 2009

The "megacode" is a hands-on role-playing scenario that changes as it progresses. There will be a simulator with different rhythms and the examiner will describe the situation as it goes along. You'll be expected to perform as you would if there was a real patient attached to the monitor. Your "patient" might start out with a tachyarrhythmia that degenerates into a bradyarrhythmia and then suddenly it's V-tach. You'll be expected to "do compressions", cardiovert, give drugs and so on. It's kinda fun.

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Aug 17, 2009

I enjoyed the megacodes in ACLS class--our instructor really got creative with our patients so we were always on our toes :)

I do recommend that you really review the materials before you start class. There's a lot to cover and it helps if you come into the class having some of a handle on it than starting from ground zero. One guy in my class walked out on his megacode because he couldn't keep track of all of the drugs and when to give them.