What’s ACLS certification?

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ACLS is emergency medical training for life-saving techniques. Certification can be earned through online or in-person courses, including practical work and passing a test. Renewal is required every two years. Many medical and non-medical jobs require ACLS certification.

Advanced Cardiac Life Support, also known as ACLS, is a type of emergency medical training focused on life-saving techniques. Many healthcare professionals hold ACLS certification, which is a requirement in many medical jobs and other positions where life-threatening situations may occur. ACLS certification can be earned through a variety of programs, including online and hands-on courses.

To earn the ACLS certification, a candidate must complete several hours of training, which may include research, lectures, and reading components. After the training segment, the candidate must participate in practical work, using special mannequins or working with certified instructors to practice the newly learned techniques. Finally, a person must successfully pass a test that covers both theory and practical issues. In addition to a written component, the test usually requires a physical demonstration of correct technique and procedure.

ACLS certification courses are often available at community centers, local colleges, and medical training facilities. Most in-person classes will take place over a weekend or a few days, culminating in certification tests. Online courses can be purchased from certain distance learning programs, including the American Heart Association. While theory courses are taken online in distance learning programs, practical elements still need to be completed in person under the guidance of a certified instructor.

Some of the skills learned in ACLS training include basic lifesaving techniques such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the Heimlich maneuver, and traditional first aid strategies. Because ACLS training is a fairly advanced course, instruction is also given in more involved techniques such as intubation, defibrillator use, and how to create IV and central lines. Mastery of these techniques is absolutely essential for certification, as incorrect technique could result in additional injury or even death.

ACLS certification needs to be renewed periodically. Renewal can be done online or in person and may involve a skills and techniques review and a test portion. Depending on the organization providing recertification, a person may or may not be required to take an in-person test in order to have their certificate renewed. In general, ACLS certification needs to be renewed every two years.

There are many different jobs that may require a person to be ACLS certified. While any medical professional working in an emergency or hospital situation will likely need to maintain current certification, many jobs outside of the medical profession also require ACLS skills. People who work with children, such as teachers, coaches, babysitters, and babysitters, may need to prove ACLS certification. Those working in professions that involve a high risk of injury or accidents, such as lifeguards and firefighters, may also need to undergo certification on a regular basis.




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