certifications while in nursing school

[tikitink3]

Hey there guys,

I'm currently a second semester RN student, and I was aware of some advanced certifications you can get as a nurse. Does anyone know if any of these advanced educational certificates exist for students or would I have to already be an RN first?

[Attuma0000]

yes i would like to know this as well.. i would like to take the ACLS and PALS certifications before i attain my RN.. i know the other exams such as CCRN and other exams that you take to "specialize" your RN you must already have the degree. but this is more along the lines of BLS and such.. any information would be helpful...

[lweatherby]

I don't know how it is in other states, but in Texas you can obtain ACLS and PALS as a student as long as you have BLS. The hospital here also requires that you complete their dysrhythmia class as a preresquite to both ACLS and PALS. The dsyrhythmia class is three mondays from 8-12. ACLS is a very intense class and requires alot of studying. So..... yes it is possible to take ACLS and PALS as a student, but you must allow time to study and go to the classes along with your student duties.

[Attuma0000]

yea i see that.. I was reading about the ACLS and PALS certs and i saw that it looks like no joke.. But still i would like to have it when i am done school so what way i will have 2 certs right off the back.. There seems to be an opportunity to take it when we are in winter break so i might do it then.. that way i can have both done before i go back for my final semester (when we do ER and Critical Care) then i would really have a heads up lol.. thanks alot for the information.. it really helped...