What is ACLS like?

[RNOTODAY, BSN, RN]

How hard is ACLS? How long is the course? I hear its expensive, but how much, about? And, what does it prepare you to do, participate in a code efficiently? Thanks!!!

[snowfreeze, BSN, RN]

ACLS prepares you for cardiac emergencies. You learn how to recognize and treat abnormal heart rhythms. Usually a 2 day long class during which you attend lectures and hands on training with simulators and test dummies; at the end you will be much more comfortable during the next code or near code you attend. ACLS is not so much a test of your skills as it is a learning experience to further your knowlege and comfort level in treating acutely ill patients in an emergency.

[zacarias, ASN, RN]

ACLS is not bad at all. I would only take it personally if your work requires it or if it is for a position you're seeking. Sometimes (often) employers pay for the class.

[Just Jojo]

I found the ACLS class to be rigorous. There was a pre-course packet to help familiarize you with the kinds of information you would be learning. It included a pre-test that was very similar to the actual test at the end of the course. If you go online and do a search for the ACLS pre-test, you will find the answer sheet. I found that having the answers to the pretest was a good learning experience in itself. My employer requires ACLS and PALS(the pediatric equivalent to ACLS). They provided the training, but I understand the course is available for about $150. It was a two-day course.