PALS for LPN's

I believe all knowledge is benefical, and well worth the time to learn all you can to assist those you work with, and care for. I have worked on Med-Surg units where ACLS was required of all the licensed staff members.

A large part of PALS is the assessment of a child to prevent the need for intubation, defibrillation...It would be well worth your time. There are also times when , as a team member during a code, you play a critical role in keeping things on track. If you know what drugs or equipment is needed next you can anticipate...

I work for a pediatric urgent care facility and all of our nurses LPN and RN must have their PALS. I feel that there is a great benefit to having this knowledge. I feel more comfortable with my position having this certification along with having ACLS and NALS.

Were do you live? I'm an LPN and the ONLY thing I don't do is hang blood. I tube, IV push, etc...........especially in L & D. In fact, I've been able to tube when MD's and EMT-P's coulden't. And you know why? Because I've had my PALS for years! And keep re-certing! And as an LPN in school.......only 3 more semesters.......I think it's a great thing, even if you aren't allowed to use it!

I say take the PALS! As the previous person said, the main goal of PALS is to assess and intervene before the need for intubation and defibrillation. Something as simple as suctioning the ala nasi of an obligate nose breather can be a life saving procedure (or at least decrease their respiratory effort). Take the knowledge and run!!! Plus, bagging a child is often easier, safer and more reliable than having a less experienced person fudge through an intubation and miss an esophageal intubation.