ACLS

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Any advice on how to best prepare for ACLS?

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Specializes in Med/Surg, StepDown, Tele, ICU.

Teach yourself basic rhythm analysis if you don't have those skills already. Buy the ACLS Provider Manual. Read the manual. Study all the algorithms. Memorize the key drugs and doses for each algorithm. Take a prep class if they are available.

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Specializes in Intensive Care Unit.

Wait until you have experience as an RN and experience with cardiac rhythms before taking any ACLS class. I recommend ECG made easy book and Skill stat ecg online tutorial (type into google) to start to learn the basics.

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Specializes in Hospital Education Coordinator.

be careful about Skillstat online. The last time I looked they were using the 2005 guidelines and you will be tested on the 2010. I believe a book is VERY helpful. They can be ordered from eworldpoint.com, laerdal.com and aha.channing-bete.com. These are the ONLY approved providers of materials per AHA (the people who own the course).

A background in dysrhythmia is extremely helpful. Concentrate on the lethal rhythms as those are the ones that end up in codes.

I, too, recommend that you get ACLS after you get nursing experience. But not all facilities will allow you to wait very long so you might be required to take the course upon hire. I can tell you that I would not consider ACLS or any other similar certification a plus when hiring as I know the student does not have the experience to back i t up.

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