Question about getting PALS

It seems some schools want you to have PALS.....well I work in an adult ICU and doubt my hospital would pay to train me in something I don't need......

How would I go about getting PALS?

Joe

Just a thought....... If your hospital has a PICU and you would be willing to work some prn hours there, they may be willing to pay for your PALS class. Although PICU is totally different from adult ICU, it's really a great experience....... and keep in mind that a variety of experience could really help your application stand out from others during the interview process. I don't know if this helped me get into CRNA school this year or not, but I have to believe that having both pedi and adult critical care experience was a contributing factor. If you're not interested in PICU though, a PALS class is well worth the money, even if you have to pay for it on your own. Ask your hospitals education department how to get into a class there or in a nearby childrens hospital. Good luck.

I suggest you ask your manager about con-ed opportunities you are afforded - one benefit of your employment should be a certain amount of money for education. I also work in an adult ICU and my unit would not pay me while I was attending PALS (my hourly rate) but they would pay for my class registration fee. I had to attend class on my own time because the 2-day course didn't count for my weekly 40 hours. It was a rough week fitting the course into the regular work week, but worth it.

Just another twist on Pedsccrn's idea...The ED requires pals, do some ot there and get some different experience including IVs, codes (off the street), infants, kids, pregnant woman...blah...blah.blah They might cover your pals cost.

-Smiley

Is there a childrens hospital in your area? They will certainly have PALS courses. The programs I applied to required it as part of the application packet.