ACLS

The American Heart Association strongly promotes knowledge and proficiency in BLS, ACLS, and PALS and has developed instructional materials for this purpose. Use of these materials in an educational course does not represent course sponsorship by the American Heart Association, and any fees charged for such a course do not represent income to the Association.

The American Heart Association's Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) course is totally redesigned for healthcare providers who either direct or participate in the resuscitation of a patient, in or out of hospital.  

Providers will enhance their skills in the treatment of the adult victim of a cardiac arrest or other cardiopulmonary emergencies and the integration of effective basic life support with advanced cardiovascular life support interventions including the importance of effective team interaction and communication during resuscitation. 

ACLS is based on simulated clinical scenarios that encourage active, hands-on participation through learning stations where students will practice essential skills individually, as part of a team, and as team leader.  Realistic simulations reinforce proficiency in BLS; recognizing and initiating early management of peri-arrest conditions; managing cardiac arrest; identifying and treating ischemic chest pain and acute coronary syndromes; recognizing other life-threatening clinical situations (such as stroke) and providing initial care; ACLS algorithms for cardiac arrhythmias; and effective resuscitation team dynamics.