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AHA Advanced Cardiac Life Support ACLS

AHA Advanced Cardiac Life Support ACLS

The American Heart Association’s Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) (also called Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) is a specialized certification course and set of guidelines designed for healthcare professionals who manage serious cardiovascular emergencies, such as cardiac arrest, arrhythmias, stroke, and acute coronary syndromes. cpr.heart.org+2international.heart.org+2

Here’s a breakdown of what ACLS is, what it covers, who it’s for, and how the course works:

What is ACLS?

  • ACLS is an advanced set of protocols and algorithms that builds on Basic Life Support (BLS) skills (such as chest compressions, use of an AED, airway management) and adds additional diagnostic and therapeutic tools (e.g. ECG / cardiac rhythm interpretation, advanced airway techniques, IV/IO drug administration) in the care of cardiovascular emergencies. cpr.heart.org+2Wikipedia+2

  • It’s intended to enhance survival and neurological outcomes in patients with life-threatening cardiac conditions by applying a structured, evidence-based approach. international.heart.org+2Wikipedia+2

  • The ACLS algorithms address multiple components, including:

    1. High-quality CPR (continuous compressions, minimizing interruptions)

    2. Early defibrillation / electrical therapy

    3. Airway management and ventilation

    4. Recognition and treatment of arrhythmias (bradycardia, tachycardia, pulseless rhythms)

    5. Use of medications (epinephrine, amiodarone, etc.)

    6. Post-cardiac arrest care

    7. Team dynamics, communication, and leadership in resuscitation settings international.heart.org+2cpr.heart.org+2

Who is it for?

ACLS is intended for healthcare professionals who may need to direct or participate in managing advanced cardiac emergencies. This includes:

  • Physicians, nurses, and paramedics

  • Personnel in emergency response, intensive/critical care, emergency medicine, and related units

  • Any provider whose job or credentialing requires an ACLS course (hospital privileging, certification boards, etc.) international.heart.org+1

There is also an “ACLS for Experienced Providers” track tailored for learners who already have strong familiarity with ECG interpretation, ACLS pharmacology, and resuscitation leadership. cpr.heart.org

Course Format & Requirements

  • ACLS courses are offered in various formats: traditional instructor-led classroom sessions, blended learning (online didactic modules + hands-on skills sessions), or hybrid approaches like HeartCode ACLS which allow flexibility in the online component followed by a skills check in person. shopcpr.heart.org+2cpr.heart.org+2

  • Trainees must perform hands-on skills (simulated or real equipment) and pass both skill testing (megacode / scenario practice) and written (cognitive) assessments. international.heart.org+1

  • Upon successful completion, participants receive a Provider Course Completion Card, which is generally valid for 2 years. international.heart.org+1

  • After the expiration, recertification is required by retaking an ACLS course or an equivalent refresher.

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