Basic and advanced life support training is a must for anyone. CPR is an essential skill in the treatment of the cardiac arrest patient. Bystander CPR with rapid defibrillation improves outcomes dramatically and really does save lives. Most students taking CPR classes are doing so for an employment or academic need, but the training really applies to anyone who wants to be prepared in the event of an emergency. When deciding on which course to take, ensure that it is an accredited certification and that it will be accepted by your employer or school.

Accredited programs include:

American Heart Association

American Red Cross

American Safety and Health Institute

Keep in mind that a school, hospital or other type of organizations require specific certification as long as it is a private entity. Unfortunately not all organizations are clear about what their policies are regarding BLS, ACLS, and First Aid certification. The results of taking the wrong class can include suspension, lost pay from the suspension, and lost pay from having to take the same class again. Keep in mind that it is NOT the responsibility of the organization doing the training, to know what your individual certification needs are. Students attending these certification courses are expected to understand what is required of them.

Depending on you experience, you may want to spend a little time preparing for advanced classes like advanced cardiac life support or pediatric advanced life support. Rhythm recognition is one of the most commonly feared areas of taking the ACLS course. This can be effectively prepared for by simply reviewing ACLS related rhythms prior to taking the course. This would include V-Fib, V-Tach, Heart Blocks, Tachycardias and Bradycardias. Recognizing what the rhythms is and understand what it means is essential to correct and appropriate treatment. DO NOT apply treatment unless you understand WHY you are doing it, and what outcome you are trying to accomplish.

To be well prepared for the practical skills in an advanced class, it is advisable to review the algorithms associated with the class you are taking. The algorithms in ACLS and PALS are the core of the class. When you leave and ACLS or PALS class you most certainly should know your algorithms.