ACLS

[Dixiecup]

I work for a FQRC (fed rural clinic). We recently had to do ACLS training. It was very stressful but I got through it! I just don't see why we need to be ACLS certified working in the clinic setting. I can tell you I will not be doing a code in the clinic. CPR and wait for EMS is a far as i'll go! Now they are telling us we are also going to have to be PALS certified!

[ImThatGuy, BSN, RN]

If 2 paramedics can run a code, why cn't you an an acls trained nurse run a code.. The odds for patient survival increase with early defibrillation. Rather than just CPR

Around here it's one paramedic running a code with an EMT driving.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I work in several dialysis units and run codes there too - we have AEDs and ACLS meds - fortunately IV access isn't an issue.

Personally (and this is my own opinion), I think all mid-levels should have ACLS and PALs because you are going to be held to that standard in court.

[Dixiecup]

Well, I'm convinced. We do have an AED in our clinic. I am just scared to death I'll so something wrong but everyone has convinced me I should at least give it a try!

[ImThatGuy, BSN, RN]

Well, I'm convinced. We do have an AED in our clinic. I am just scared to death I'll so something wrong but everyone has convinced me I should at least give it a try!

You can do it!

[kanzi monkey]

Well, I'm convinced. We do have an AED in our clinic. I am just scared to death I'll so something wrong but everyone has convinced me I should at least give it a try!

I'm happy to have ACLS training simply to have a bit more knowledge on board in an emergency situation. I work in a hospital setting where there is a code team, so while I might be the patient's provider I'm literally standing in the corner if one of my patients is crashing. I'm there because I know the patient and my value in that situation is simply that (and I'm calling my team/attending/various consults/writing orders depending on the situation). But I honestly just feel better knowing the process and how communication works at that level--it's a lot less scary when you can anticipate the next move/drug given/test required in the context of this patient that you know and whose disease you are familiar with.

In an outpatient setting I think it would help in a similar way--while you're going through the BLS process, doing CPR, getting the AED, etc, you can think through the next steps, at which point you may identify resources that you have on hand that may be helpful (like, someone to start a line if nothing else).

Even if I don't "directly" save lives on a day to day basis I feel better about myself as a provider with ACLS training, and I honestly feel like patients in my care are at least a tiny bit safer because of it.

You will be fine. It's fun!

good luck!

-Kan