Course Description
The American Heart Association's Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support course is totally redesigned for healthcare providers who either direct or participate in the resuscitation of a patient, whether in or out of hospital. Through the ACLS course, providers will enhance their skills in the treatment of the adult victim of a cardiac arrest or other cardiopulmonary emergencies. ACLS emphasizes the importance of basic life support CPR to patient survival; the integration of effective basic life support with advanced cardiovascular life support interventions; and the importance of effective team interaction and communication during resuscitation.
ACLS is based on simulated clinical scenarios that encourage active, hands-on participation through learning stations where students will practice essential skills individually, as part of a team, and as team leader. Realistic simulations reinforce the following key concepts: proficiency in basic life support care; recognizing and initiating early management of peri-arrest conditions; managing cardiac arrest; identifying and treating ischemic chest pain and acute coronary syndromes; recognizing other life-threatening clinical situations (such as stroke) and providing initial care; ACLS algorithms; and effective resuscitation team dynamics.
Course Length: 13½ hours approx., including breaks
Intended Audience
The course is designed for medical providers such as physicians, nurses, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, respiratory therapists, and other professionals who may respond to a cardiovascular emergency.
Student Materials:
-
ACLS Provider Manual
- ACLS Student CD
- ACLS Precourse Checklist
- ACLS Pocket Reference Cards
Instructor Materials:
- ACLS Instructor Manual
- ACLS Instructor CD
- ACLS Course Video (DVD or VHS) (includes renewal course)
- ACLS 9-Pack Poster Set
Card Type: Course completion
Written/Skills Exam: Required for completion card
Reviewed/Updated 04/24/2008
