ACLS is a set of guidelines for healthcare professionals managing cardiovascular emergencies. To obtain a certificate, a clinical scenario exam and a written exam must be passed. ACLS training involves testing and algorithms for treating cardiac arrhythmias. The clinical exam involves identifying the arrhythmia and knowing which algorithm to use to treat it. The written exam covers cardiac arrest symptoms, CPR procedures, and medications used in various algorithms.
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is a set of guidelines and algorithms for healthcare professionals who are managing cardiovascular emergencies. To obtain an ACLS certificate, suppliers must first pass the ACLS test. During an ACLS test, you will be required to pass a clinical scenario exam by implementing various algorithms for handling cardiac emergencies. You may also complete a written exam covering the same principles used in the clinical portion of the ACLS test.
The requirements for obtaining the nationally recognized ACLS certificate are the same, but the ACLS testing procedures may vary depending on the testing center and certification organization. Typically, for an initial certification, a two-day class will be held. The first day will be ACLS instruction. Because the ACLS algorithms are complicated, it’s helpful to study them before coming to class.
The second day of ACLS training will involve testing. Expect to experience a clinical scenario involving an abnormal heart rhythm. ACLS guidelines include algorithms for treating cardiac arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation, asystole, and pulseless electrical activity.
When you start the clinical exam, your class can be divided into groups of three or four people. One person at a time will be given the role of team leader. The team leader will direct the rest of the team through the scenario. During your shift as a team leader, you will be assessed on your implementation of the clinical interventions that are part of the ACLS.
During your clinical exam, your group will be given a scenario by a preceptor. You must identify the arrhythmia and know which algorithm to use to treat it. The preceptor will continue to provide the necessary information as needed, allowing you to know when to continue the algorithm and when to switch to a different one.
Algorithms include medication use, airway management including intubation, CPR, and use of an automated defibrillator. You will need to know when each step is required. As you do not know which arrhythmia you will be presented with, it is essential to know all of them. Although you don’t have time, you will need to move quickly from one step of the algorithm to the next, similar to a real-life emergency.
After completing the clinical section of the advanced cardiac life support test, you will need to take the written exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions. It covers cardiac arrest symptoms, CPR procedures, and medications used in various algorithms. In most cases, you will find out if you have passed any part of the ACLS test shortly after completing the exams.
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