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Save a Life Certifications by NHCPS

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) will prepare you to respond to life-threatening emergencies in the adult population with advanced interventions. Designed by experienced providers in conjunction with board-certified physicians and veteran Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS instructors, this course is an engaging and comprehensive approach to reviewing and analyzing the core rhythms of Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) practice.

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Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) will prepare you to respond to life-threatening emergencies in the adult population with advanced interventions. Designed by experienced providers in conjunction with board-certified physicians and veteran Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS instructors, this course is an engaging and comprehensive approach to reviewing and analyzing the core rhythms of Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) practice.

This Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) course is based on the latest guidelines of the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR), which focuses on performing several tasks simultaneously with a group process that enables efficiency and minimizes error.

Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) will prepare you to respond to life-threatening emergencies in the pediatric population with advanced interventions. This PALS course is based on the latest guidelines, which focus on doing several tasks simultaneously with a group process that enables efficiency and minimizes errors.

This course will teach participants how to perform advanced emergency interventions as well as review foundation theories, including Basic Life Support, Anatomy and Physiology of the Heart, the Resuscitation Team, Principles Of Early Defibrillation, a Systematic Approach, Life-Threatening Issues, Medical Devices, Bradycardia, Tachycardia, electrocardiogram (ECG) Rhythms and Interpretations and many more.

The course package includes:

- ACLS & PALS Self-Assessments and Review Questions

- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Provider Handbook

- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) Provider Handbook

- Numerous ACLS and PALS Lectures and Video Presentations

Note: This course is for Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) training.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • At the completion of this course, students will be prepared to take the certification examination for acls and pals
  • Learn the theories and techniques required to respond to life threatening emergencies in the adult and pediatric population
  • Understand the ilcor standards and guidelines derived algorithms
  • Be familiar with advanced lifesaving interventions such as advanced airway management, medications, and therapies

Syllabus

Save A Life by NHCPS & The Disque Foundation
Introducing Save A Life by NHCPS & the Disque Foundation

NHCPS is the most trusted name in online medical certification today. Our certification courses are 100% online and are eligible for AMA Category 1 Credits. Join thousands of healthcare providers around the world that have received certifications, completely online, in less than an hour. Choose the certification you need and get started today at NHCPS.com! 

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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Prepares learners to respond to life-threatening emergencies, which is essential for healthcare professionals working in emergency and critical care settings
Based on the latest ILCOR guidelines, which ensures that learners are trained according to current best practices in resuscitation
Covers advanced lifesaving interventions, such as airway management and pharmacology, which are critical skills for advanced practitioners
Includes self-assessments and review questions, which allows learners to gauge their understanding and prepare for certification exams
Requires familiarity with Basic Life Support (BLS), which may necessitate additional training for some learners before taking this course
Focuses on performing tasks simultaneously with a group process, which requires learners to develop strong teamwork and communication skills

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive acls & pals certification prep

According to learners, the ACLS & PALS course is a very comprehensive and well-structured resource, particularly useful for certification preparation. Many highlight the value of the included handbooks, finding them helpful references. The online format is appreciated for its flexibility, especially by busy professionals. While widely seen as practical and straight to the point, a few reviewers noted the presentation style could be a bit dry or that some videos felt dated. Some felt it might lack sufficient depth for complete beginners or on complex topics, suggesting it's perhaps best for review or recertification. Overall, it's considered a solid resource for its purpose.
May require supplemental study
"...maybe not for a complete beginner."
"Some parts could be explained with more detail..."
"The videos sometimes lacked depth on certain complex topics. Good overview, but I supplemented..."
"As an intermediate learner, I found it a good review, but beginners might need more foundational material."
Convenient for busy schedules
"As a busy nurse, this online format was perfect for my schedule."
"The materials are well-organized and easy to navigate."
Covers topics thoroughly and logically
"Excellent course! Very comprehensive and well-structured."
"Good content covering ACLS and PALS. The algorithms were explained well."
"Comprehensive course content. I appreciated the emphasis on team dynamics and the systematic approach..."
"Very practical and straight to the point. Focused on the essential knowledge needed..."
"It covered both ACLS and PALS effectively in one package."
Highly valuable reference material
"The handbooks were also very helpful."
"The included handbooks are a great reference."
"Useful handbooks though."
"The handbooks were very valuable."
"Handbooks are the best part."
Well-prepared for exams
"Prepared me well for the certification exam."
"Passed my certification easily after this."
"Excellent preparation for the ACLS/PALS exam. The practice questions and self-assessments mirrored the actual test well."
"It's a great way to recertify or prepare for initial certification."
Some found delivery dry or dated
"The course covered the material okay, but I found the presentation style a bit dry."
"Content was okay, but not as engaging as I hoped."
"Some videos felt a bit dated..."
"Decent course, but the interface felt a bit clunky."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in ACLS & PALS with these activities:
Review Basic Life Support (BLS) Guidelines
Reinforce your understanding of BLS guidelines to ensure a solid foundation for the more advanced ACLS and PALS protocols covered in the course.
Show steps
  • Review the latest AHA/ILCOR BLS guidelines.
  • Practice chest compression and ventilation techniques on a manikin.
  • Review BLS algorithms for adults, children, and infants.
Study 'ACLS Provider Manual'
Study the ACLS Provider Manual to gain a thorough understanding of the algorithms and protocols covered in the course.
Show steps
  • Read each chapter carefully.
  • Complete the self-assessment questions at the end of each chapter.
  • Review the ACLS algorithms and flowcharts.
Study 'PALS Provider Manual'
Study the PALS Provider Manual to gain a thorough understanding of the algorithms and protocols covered in the course.
Show steps
  • Read each chapter carefully.
  • Complete the self-assessment questions at the end of each chapter.
  • Review the PALS algorithms and flowcharts.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Simulate Cardiac Arrest Scenarios
Practice responding to simulated cardiac arrest scenarios to improve your decision-making and teamwork skills under pressure.
Show steps
  • Participate in simulated ACLS and PALS scenarios with a team.
  • Practice rapid assessment, airway management, and medication administration.
  • Debrief after each scenario to identify areas for improvement.
Watch ACLS and PALS Video Tutorials
Supplement your learning by watching video tutorials that demonstrate ACLS and PALS techniques and algorithms in real-time scenarios.
Show steps
  • Search for reputable ACLS and PALS video tutorials online.
  • Focus on videos that demonstrate key skills and algorithms.
  • Take notes and review the key points after watching each video.
Create a Cheat Sheet for ACLS/PALS Medications
Compile a concise cheat sheet of essential ACLS and PALS medications, including dosages, indications, and contraindications, for quick reference during emergencies.
Show steps
  • Research common ACLS and PALS medications.
  • Organize the information into a clear and concise format.
  • Include dosages, indications, and contraindications.
Participate in ACLS/PALS Study Group
Join or form a study group with other students to review course materials, practice scenarios, and quiz each other on key concepts.
Show steps
  • Find other students who are also taking the ACLS/PALS course.
  • Schedule regular study sessions.
  • Review course materials and practice scenarios together.
Develop an Emergency Response Plan for Your Workplace
Create a comprehensive emergency response plan tailored to your workplace, incorporating ACLS and PALS principles to improve preparedness for cardiac arrest and other life-threatening emergencies.
Show steps
  • Assess the potential risks and hazards in your workplace.
  • Develop protocols for responding to cardiac arrest and other emergencies.
  • Train staff on the emergency response plan.
  • Regularly review and update the plan.

Career center

Learners who complete ACLS & PALS will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Emergency Medical Technician
An Emergency Medical Technician provides immediate medical care and stabilization to patients in emergency situations. This course, focusing on Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support, provides a strong foundation for an Emergency Medical Technician who often encounters patients in cardiac and respiratory distress. The course helps build competence in advanced airway management, use of medical devices, and understanding of algorithms for various emergencies which are central to the role of an Emergency Medical Technician.
Paramedic
A Paramedic responds to emergency calls, providing advanced medical care to patients at the scene and during transport. This Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support course directly impacts the ability of a Paramedic to perform their responsibilities. Paramedics use advanced interventions to manage cardiac arrest, respiratory distress, and other life-threatening emergencies, all areas that this course addresses in depth. The course builds a strong understanding of emergency algorithms and medical devices.
Registered Nurse
A Registered Nurse delivers direct patient care, administering medications and treatments and monitoring patient conditions. This course in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support may be particularly relevant for nurses working in critical care units, emergency departments or pediatric units. This course addresses the use of medical devices and medications which is a key component of the work that a Registered Nurse performs.
Emergency Room Nurse
An Emergency Room Nurse provides rapid assessment and intervention for patients with a wide variety of emergent conditions. This course in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support is crucial for an Emergency Room Nurse as they frequently encounter patients with cardiac and respiratory emergencies. This course helps build confidence in using advanced interventions, medical devices, and understanding current resuscitation guidelines.
Respiratory Therapist
A Respiratory Therapist specializes in respiratory care and manages patients with breathing difficulties. This course, focusing on Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support, helps build skills essential for a Respiratory Therapist who is often part of the resuscitation team. The course's content on airway management, the use of medical devices, and understanding of resuscitation algorithms are highly relevant to the role of a Respiratory Therapist.
Critical Care Nurse
A Critical Care Nurse manages seriously ill patients, often those with complex medical needs. The knowledge of Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support gained from this course is essential for a Critical Care Nurse as they routinely manage life-threatening issues, including cardiac and respiratory arrest. This course may help them with advanced airway management, medication administration, and the implementation of resuscitation algorithms.
Physician Assistant
A Physician Assistant practices medicine under the supervision of a physician and performs physical exams, orders tests, and provides treatment. Those in acute care settings will benefit from this Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support course because they frequently manage patients with life-threatening conditions and will require the knowledge of advanced interventions and treatment algorithms taught within this course. This course will help build competence in advanced lifesaving procedures.
Flight Nurse
A Flight Nurse provides critical care during air transport. This role demands a high level of expertise in emergency medicine. A Flight Nurse will find this course helpful as they will need to be proficient in advanced interventions, specifically as they relate to the adult and pediatric populations, covered in depth by this course. This course strengthens knowledge of critical cardiac and respiratory procedures, especially those needed for patients in transport.
Anesthesiologist Assistant
An Anesthesiologist Assistant provides patient care related to anesthesia, including airway management. This Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support course is beneficial because it covers basic and advanced airway management, as well as cardiac physiology and pharmacology. An understanding of the material in this course enhances the ability of an Anesthesiologist Assistant to manage critical situations in the operating room.
Clinical Nurse Specialist
A Clinical Nurse Specialist provides expert care in a specific area of nursing practice. This course in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support is useful because it allows a Clinical Nurse Specialist to use their expertise when advising their nursing team. This course equips a Clinical Nurse Specialist with advanced knowledge of emergency protocols, medical devices, medications, and algorithms.
Cardiovascular Technologist
A Cardiovascular Technologist uses diagnostic equipment to evaluate patients with heart and blood vessel conditions. While this role has a different focus than direct patient intervention, this course may be useful to a Cardiovascular Technologist because it provides a deeper understanding of cardiac rhythms, interpretation of electrocardiograms, and basic anatomy and physiology of the heart. This foundational knowledge, covered by this course, enhances their understanding of cardiovascular conditions they diagnose.
Pediatrician
A Pediatrician manages the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. This course may be useful to a Pediatrician because it provides specific training in Pediatric Advanced Life Support. This course gives critical information to effectively respond to life-threatening emergencies in children. This course helps a Pediatrician develop advanced intervention techniques and familiarity with ILCOR guidelines.
Cardiologist
A Cardiologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions. While this role requires many years of training and an advanced degree, the concepts addressed in this course are helpful to a Cardiologist because it builds a foundational understanding of cardiac rhythms, interventions, and resuscitation guidelines. A Cardiologist would benefit from the information presented in this course.
Medical Director
A Medical Director is responsible for the medical oversight of a healthcare facility or organization. While not directly providing hands-on patient care, this course may be useful for a Medical Director. The course provides a strong understanding of the latest standards and guidelines relating to cardiac and pediatric emergencies. This course helps develop the skills needed for a Medical Director to ensure that teams are following the appropriate procedures.
Medical Assistant
A Medical Assistant performs administrative and clinical tasks in healthcare settings. This course may be helpful to a Medical Assistant as it enhances their understanding of basic life-saving techniques. A Medical Assistant with a deeper knowledge of Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support enhances the quality of care provided at their facility.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in ACLS & PALS.
This manual is the official textbook for the ACLS certification course. It provides comprehensive information on ACLS algorithms, pharmacology, and resuscitation techniques. It crucial reference for understanding the core concepts and procedures taught in the course. is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions and by industry professionals.
This manual is the official textbook for the PALS certification course. It provides comprehensive information on PALS algorithms, pharmacology, and resuscitation techniques. It crucial reference for understanding the core concepts and procedures taught in the course. is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions and by industry professionals.

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