How long should I work before taking ACLS?

[mich321]

I have been working on a med-surg/telemetry/ICU stepdown floor since January 2009, and I have been off orientation since May. I would like to go for ACLS as I think it is important and would help increase my confidence at work. I'm just nervous that I do not know enough yet, and I don't want to look foolish. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[Psqrd]

I took ACLS as a fourth semester student about 2 months before graduation and because of it ended up on a Cardiovascular intervention floor. You are correct that it gives you a bit more confidence and increases your marketability if you ever want to move to tele or higher acuity floor.

My advice is don't wait...go for it! Do your pre-reading before the course and you should have no problem as they teach you all that you need to know to pass.

P2 my

[guest64485]

I'd suggest to take it right away; it gives valuable information for codes, and codes won't conveniently wait till you have ACLS done!

[pinoysn]

I plan to work on a telemetry floor after I graduate and pass my NCLEX God willing. Not sure if the telemetry floor at the hospital I currently work at requires ACLS. If not, I still plan to get my ACLS. Should I do my ACLS before I start working or after?

[danh3190]

ACLS isn't that hard. I've been taking it every 2 years for about 26 years now. It used to be a lot more stressful, but they've cut out the most stressful parts (mega-code, flash EKG rhythm test etc). If you're already working as a cardiac nurse you're ready. As a medic I found it hard to learn some of the meds that are only used in the hospital but now after a couple years as a cardiac nurse even that part isn't bad anymore.

[MntnGirl]

I started on a Med/Surg floor in January 2010 and took ACLS in November 2010 - I passed it right away, you'll do just fine as long as you pay attention in the classes. It helps to take a look at the booklet and review some of the meds before the 1st class. Good Luck.