What Is ACLS Certification?

ACLS is an abbreviation for Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support and the certification aspect consists of training on clinically tested algorithms dedicated to the treatment of cardiovascular conditions that are considered life-threatening. ACLS offers a more comprehensive training This certification is designed for professional healthcare providers to understand how to knowledgeably support patients during a stroke, cardiac arrest or other related emergencies. After being established in 1974, this certification has been continuously refreshed to ensure updated practices based on American Heart Association standards. 

ACLS addresses a number of conditions such as stroke recognition, sudden cardiac arrest, and acute coronary syndromes. It also focuses on treatments such as minimal interruption of CPR and the use of AEDs.

What Does ACLS Certification Cover?

ACLS courses teach students how to improve patient outcomes by sustaining life and making efforts to keep a patient’s neurological function intact during life-threatening cardiovascular events. This certification requires BLS knowledge and potentially the interpretation of ECGs. ACLS training could be the difference between life and death for someone in critical need. Increases the chances of saving a patient’s life in critical circumstances.

Upon the completion of an ACLS certification course, the holder will be able to:

• Perform Basic and Advanced Cardiovascular Support Skills 
• Identification and quick control of peri-arrest conditions like symptomatic bradycardia
• Identification and quick control of respiratory and cardiac arrest
• Manage ACS and stroke
• Airway management 
• Effectively communicate as a member and potential leader of the team
• Relevant pharmacology
• Prior to completing the ACLS certification, students show already have knowledge of 
• Basic anatomy, physiology and pharmacology
• Administering medications
• Interpreting electrocardiograms (ECGs).

There is a written exam and a practical portion that require passing in order to receive official ACLS certification.

Who Needs ACLS Certification?

ACLS is geared towards professional healthcare providers working in hospitals or medical clinic settings, particularly in the ICU, Emergency Room or with adults. This generally includes:

• Doctors
• Registered nurses (RNs)
• Paramedics
• ACLS is NOT required nor necessary for policemen, teachers, physiotherapists or laypersons. 

Most healthcare employers require this certification to be completed within 6 months of the hiring date. If it is offered through your employer or is highly recommended for your position - take it! ACLS encompasses vital skills that will make you an asset to any healthcare team. 

Where Can I Get An ACLS Certification?

If you are unsure where to get your ACLS certification, you can do research on programs in your area, check out online reviews or get recommendations from colleagues. There are many online ACLS recertification programs available which make it easy to complete quickly, on your own schedule and generally hassle-free. If you live in a remote area or don’t have an available weekend to take your class at a facility (or frankly just don’t want to) - online certifications are completely valid, usually less expensive and much more convenient. The full course will take approximately 13 hours online or 2 days of class at a facility.

When looking into potential ACLS certification programs, there are a few things to keep in mind: 

The course should include information based on the American Heart Associaton credentials as this is considered the golden standard of ACLS education.

Price of the program should be looked into and compared with other programs available to ensure that you are getting a fair cost for the training whether you choose to go online or to a facility. It is also a great incentive to find a course that offers a discount on the renewal for being a recurring customer. 

Ideal ACLS courses will offer a review option prior to testing. This is especially vital for those are getting the certification for the first time. It can also be helpful if you are renewing and feel like you could use a refresher. 

Once you have completed the certification course for ACLS, the certification lasts a total of 2 years. The issue date and renewal date will should be labeled on the official card you receive. To ensure that you stay credentialed, set yourself a calendar notification around the renewal date or choose a course that offers a reminder. 

Conclusion - What is ACLS Certification?

ACLS Certification is required for most healthcare professionals and there are different options available to complete the course. It is important to look into the details of the ACLS class you choose to take to make sure it is a fit for your needs.