Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification is a necessary credential for medical professionals and healthcare providers who wish to work in critical care settings or specialize in cardiac conditions. ACLS certification teaches healthcare providers clinical skills and strategies related to advanced patient resuscitation and care, including recognizing, treating and monitoring life-threatening conditions.
The process for achieving Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support certification varies by provider type, but most programs require all participants to have a valid license and valid Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Then, many programs require aspiring ACLS providers to attend a lecture and assessment prior to the certification exam. The lecture provides a solid foundation for the certification course through a review of resuscitation targets, medication guidelines and evidence-based treatments. After the lecture, participants must submit to a skills-based assessment to ensure that they possess the necessary knowledge and skills for the certification process.
Following the lecture and skills-based assessment, the certification exam requires that the candidate demonstrate mastery of the material by passing the exam with a minimum score of 70%. After passing the exam, the candidate is granted certification. ACLS certification generally lasts for 2 years and will need to be renewed after that period if you still wish to provide care in a critical care setting.
ACLS certification courses typically include topics such as airway management, vitals, treatment protocols and teamwork approaches to resuscitation. Additional topics also include the use of ACLS rhythm strips, rhythm recognition and conversion, CPR, and drug-related interventions. In addition to ACLS-specific topics, candidates must also learn how to respond to a variety of medical emergencies, such as cardiac arrest, stroke and shock.
The Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support certification is a crucial credential for healthcare professionals seeking to provide critical care for patients in cardiac-related processes. In addition to providing skills-based training and a strong background in clinical procedures, ACLS certification also provides the opportunity to gain experience in a variety of medical settings and remain competent in the field of critical care.