ACLS classes near me

Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support certification

ACLS classes, is one of Dreambound's most sought-after courses, especially among individuals aspiring to advance their nursing careers and become a critical care nurse. Many find it rewarding and fulfilling; however, it can also pose emotional challenges. Additionally, critical care nurses typically receive higher pay due to the specialized nature of their work.

On Dreambound, there are 33 ACLS programs, 18 upcoming classes, and the average class length is 2 years. With online ACLS classes available, you can conveniently study from any location. However, we strongly encourage you to engage in in-person skill practice to effectively perform the hands-on tasks required of a critical care nurse.

Wondering if Dreambound can help you achieve your aspirations? Listen to the stories of students who have realized their dreams with their guidance.

"I really appreciate the program they have going on. I like how they submit information to you and let you know the things that you need, as well as the opportunities that align with your goals to better your life. Thank you so much for this, Dreambound." — Keasha Ellis
"Dreambound is really easy to use and always responds quickly. It's like having a helpful friend at your fingertips." — Randa Greene
"I found the Dreambound platform very easy to navigate, and I was able to find some very useful information." — Bridgette Dean

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Learn more about the ACLS certification

What is ACLS?

Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), also known as ACLS comprises a series of protocols and procedures designed to manage severe medical emergencies. It represents a step beyond Basic Life Support (BLS), involving more advanced medical interventions aimed at saving lives. These interventions encompass understanding EKG rhythms, administering appropriate medications, and performing necessary procedures. ACLS focuses on the immediate response and treatment of life-threatening cardiovascular events, such as cardiac arrest, stroke, and acute coronary syndromes.

How to become a Critical Care Nurse?

To become a critical care nurse, the initial step is to become a Registered Nurse (RN) by earning either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Following this, licensure is obtained by passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Subsequently, a minimum of two years of nursing experience in a specialized intensive care nursing role is required. Once sufficient experience as an RN is gained, specialization in critical care nursing can be pursued through certification. Finally, employment opportunities in critical care nursing can be pursued.

How long does it take to become a Critical Care Nurse?

The journey to becoming a critical care nurse usually encompasses multiple stages, such as acquiring a nursing degree, accruing clinical experience, and achieving certification in critical care nursing. The duration of this process can fluctuate based on factors like one's educational background and their capability to fulfill the essential criteria. On average, the path to becoming a certified critical care nurse takes around 2–4 years, involving obtaining an RN license and accumulating a minimum of 1,750 hours of clinical experience. This certification is acknowledged by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN).

Where can a Critical Care Nurse work?

Critical care nurses have opportunities for employment in diverse healthcare settings, tailored to their specialization and personal inclinations. They typically work in Intensive Care Units (ICUs), Cardiac Care Units (CCUs), and Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). Moreover, they are often found in emergency departments, where they deliver immediate care to patients facing critical medical conditions or injuries. Additionally, some critical care nurses specialize in providing care during medical transport, whether by helicopters, airplanes, or ambulances, ensuring the secure transfer of critically ill patients between healthcare facilities.

How much does a Critical Care Nurse make?

The salary of a critical care nurse can vary depending on various factors such as experience, location, education, and certifications. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for registered nurses, including critical care nurses, was $81,220 in May 2022. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $61,250, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $129,400.

ACLS classes by City

In order to help you find ACLS classes, at Dreambound we've gathered the most comprehensive list of ACLS classes in the US. Below, you can find a list of ACLS classes, organized by city. If you don't see your city listed, you can always search by zip code.

How to become a Critical Care Nurse

We know taking the first step to becoming a critical care nurse can be scary. That's why we're trying to demystify the process by writing guides on how to become a critical care nurse. Since State process or requirements may vary, we've written separate guides for each state:

Exploration of ACLS versus other programs

Considering other programs? Read our guides on ACLS versus other similar programs in field, providing a comprehensive overview to assist you in making the right choice for your career path.

Written by

Vduani Martinez

Vduani Martinez is a part of the Growth team at Dreambound. She creates and fixes workflows and automation to guarantee seamless operations. On top of that, she manages databases to ensure all information is up to date. Vduani is a licensed Electronics Engineer who loves coffee and is a travel enthusiast. Out of the office, she enjoys going on road trips and discovering new cafes and restaurants.

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