What is ACLS?

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is a set of clinical interventions for urgent treatment of cardiac arrest, stroke, and other life-threatening medical emergencies. It extends beyond Basic Life Support (BLS) to include cardiac monitoring, use of IV, and the administration of drugs.

Training Requirements

To take the ACLS course, a healthcare professional must have a solid understanding of:

• Basic life support skills

• EKG rhythm identification

• Adult pharmacology

• Airway management and equipment

Before enrolling in an ACLS class, it's recommended to have a BLS certification and some experience in the healthcare field.

What to Look for in a Class

When searching for an ACLS class, consider the following factors:

• Accreditation: The course should be accredited by the American Heart Association (AHA), the organization responsible for ACLS protocols.

• Instructor's qualifications: Ensure the instructor is certified and has relevant experience in healthcare.

• Mode of learning: Some people prefer in-person classes, while others might opt for online or blended learning options.

• Course Content: The course should cover all necessary aspects of ACLS, including cardiac arrest algorithms, post-cardiac arrest care, and acute dysrhythmia.

What to Expect from the Day-to-Day Class

ACLS classes typically blend theory with practical exercises. You'll learn the theory behind the advanced interventions and then apply them in practical scenarios. You can expect to learn about:

• Basic life support skills

• Recognition and early management of respiratory and cardiac arrest

• Airway management

• ACLS pharmacology

• Effective communication as a member and leader of a resuscitation team

Certification Process

The certification process includes passing the ACLS course, after which you will receive an ACLS Provider Course Completion Card. The card is valid for two years, after which you'll need to take the ACLS renewal course.

How to Find a Related Job

Once you're ACLS certified, you can apply for jobs that require this certification. Many employers, like hospitals and emergency medical services, value ACLS certification. You can find related job listings on various job search platforms or on Dreambound, the largest platform for students to find vocational training programs and related jobs.

Other Classes to Take After Becoming ACLS Certified

After earning your ACLS certification, you may consider taking additional courses to further expand your skills. These may include:

• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS): This course builds on the skills learned in ACLS, focusing on pediatric patients.

• Advanced Medical Life Support (AMLS): This course is designed for healthcare professionals who need advanced understanding of medical emergencies.

Additional Training Options in Salt Lake City

If you've already completed your ACLS training, there are other healthcare training options to consider in Salt Lake City:

• Radiology Technician: Radiology technicians perform imaging examinations like X-rays.

• Certified Medication Aide: Medication aides are trained to administer medications to patients.

• Phlebotomist: Phlebotomists specialize in drawing blood for tests, transfusions, or research.

ACLS Renewal

ACLS certification is valid for two years. To maintain your credentials, you'll need to take a renewal course. The renewal course is a refresher, reinforcing the essential skills and knowledge required for ACLS.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're just starting your healthcare career or looking to enhance your skills, ACLS training is a valuable asset. It's not only a requirement for many jobs in the healthcare industry but also equips you with life-saving skills. Whether it's ACLS or any other healthcare training program in Salt Lake City, Dreambound is a reliable platform to find the perfect class. Remember, the journey towards becoming a healthcare professional is one of lifelong learning. Every course you take, every certification you earn, brings you one step closer to providing the best patient care possible.

Dreambound has put together numerous guides to help you navigate the certification process in this field, tailored for various cities. For insights into the process or requirements in other states, see some of our additional guides below.

• How to Become a Critical Care Nurse in District of Columbia
• How to Become a Critical Care Nurse in Louisiana
• How to Become a Critical Care Nurse in Nebraska
• How to Become a Critical Care Nurse in Ohio
• How to Become a Critical Care Nurse in Wisconsin

Thinking about a potential career transition? Dreambound has detailed guides to help you with making informed decisions.

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