Advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) is a set of guidelines and algorithms for treating cardiovascular emergencies health care providers. Providers must first pass the ACLS test in order to receive an ACLS certificate. During an ACLS exam, you’ll be asked to complete a clinical scenario exam in which you’ll have to use various algorithms to treat cardiac emergencies. A written exam covering the same principles you used in the clinical portion of the ACLS test is also expected.
Although the requirements for earning the nationally recognized ACLS certificate are the same, ACLS test procedures may differ depending on the testing center and certifying organization. A two-day class is usually held for an initial certification. The first day will consist of ACLS training. Because the ACLS algorithms are complex, it is beneficial to study them before attending class.
Testing will take place on the second day of ACLS training. Expect to go through a clinical scenario involving a heart rhythm that is abnormal. Treatment algorithms for cardiac arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation, asystole, and pulseless electrical activity are included in the ACLS guidelines.
Your class may be divided into groups of three or four people when the clinical exam begins. The role of team leader will be assigned to one person at a time. During the scenario, the team leader will direct the rest of the team. You will be graded on how well you implement the clinical interventions that are part of ACLS during your turn as team leader.
A preceptor will present a scenario to your group during your clinical exam. You’ll need to be able to recognize the arrhythmia and know which algorithm to use to treat it. The preceptor will continue to provide necessary information as needed, allowing you to determine when to continue with the algorithm and when to change it.
Medication, airway management, including intubation, CPR, and the use of an automatic defibrillator are all algorithms. You’ll need to be aware of when each step is required. Because you never know which arrhythmia you’ll be confronted with, it’s critical to be familiar with all of them. Despite the fact that you will not be timed, you will be required to move quickly from one step in the algorithm to the next, much like you would in a real-life emergency.
You’ll need to take the written exam after you’ve completed the clinical section of the advanced cardiac life support test. Multiple-choice questions make up the exam. It covers cardiac arrest symptoms, CPR procedures, and medications used in different algorithms. Most of the time, you’ll find out if you passed either part of the ACLS test right after you finish it.