ACLS, only a week to study

rn-jane · Sep 10, 2008

I think you will be okay. Try going to a large bookstore and see if they have a acls book there for you if you really think you got to start now.

Creamsoda, ASN, RN · Sep 10, 2008

You will be fine. As long as you know the algorithms by heart you should be good to go. It doesnt take to long to memorize them.

Editorial Team / Moderator · Sep 10, 2008

Yup ... it's all about the algorithms, and they do go over all of them in the two-day class. You'll probably also have opportunities to practice megacodes using the algorithms in class, too. It's the kinder, gentler ACLS these days ... don't fret!

Dixielee, BSN, RN · Sep 10, 2008

The algorithms have been simplified over the years and are pretty easy to remember now. If you can, once you get the book, copy each of the algorithms, either by hand or copier. Then take "similar" ones and compare them....v-tach, v-fib, asystole, etc. together, brady arrhythmias together etc. and you will see how similar they are. Then just remember the differences.

Also, if you are not really comfortable with rhythms, study the rhythm strips and get comfortable with the different types of heart blocks. A lot of people have trouble with those, but if you know what is happening electrically in the heart, they make sense, so look at the physiology of it and you will not forget it.

Know the life threatening rhythms and how to treat. Knowing the difference in what can wait and what needs immediate treatment is the key.

The rest of the stuff is covered in class. I am a visual learner, and do better by taking good notes and going over them several times after the class. Use whatever method works for you.

Don't bother reading the entire book, but be sure to read the information they put in "boxes". the intro and summary of each chapter.

Remember the class is designed to teach you, not to make you fail or intimidate you. Pay attention in class, as the instructors will drop lots of hints as to what is on the test. Pay more attention to the speakers and the things covered in class than trying to absorb everything in the book.

Relax and realize this is a great learning experience, and is designed to help you, not give you a stroke! :yeah:

FlyingScot, RN · Sep 10, 2008

There are some good interactive and free study guides on the net. I'll try to find them for you. Otherwise. Don't freak out you'll be fine.

ava'smomRN · Sep 10, 2008

thanks everyone!

allnurses Guide · Sep 10, 2008

I usually use http://www.resus.org.uk I know it is the UK guidlines but I think the only difference is one of 2 of the drugs.

All the algorithms and rationales are on that site

classicdame, MSN, EdD · Sep 10, 2008

Try www.skillstat.com for free practice demo. Be sure to ask questions that first day. You will do fine.

Dorito, ASN, RN · Sep 10, 2008

Also, the new ACLS books have a CD that contains a pre-test. You can take the test as many times as you want and it lets you know where you need to brush up....meds or rhythms. Good luck. It's normal to sweat about ACLS the first time.

Tweety, BSN, RN · Sep 10, 2008

Devote an hour or so each night to get through the entire book and you'll do fine. That's what I did last year and I made a 100 on the test. It does presume you know a little about reading a strip but if you can do that, a week is adequate time if you read the book.

ChadlyRN · May 31, 2010

I know this post is old, but I'm taking my first ACLS on Wednesday/Thursday of this week. I'm a new grad nurse and slightly freaking out. I've got my book, the disk, and ready to roll :-)