Course Objectives

Course Overview and Design:

Scientific evidence has pointed the way toward better content, while educational research has led to improved design of the ACLS EP Course. Both the design and content of the Heart & Stroke ACLS EP Course are evidence based.

The ACLS EP Course emphasizes 4 major concepts:

• The crucial importance of high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to patient survival
• The integration of effective BLS with ACLS interventions
• The importance of effective team interaction and communication during resuscitation
• Critical thinking and critical decision-making skills

The course is designed to give learners the opportunity to practice and demonstrate proficiency in the following skills used in resuscitation:

• Systematic approach: BLS, Primary, and Secondary Assessments
• High-quality BLS
• Airway management
• Rhythm recognition
• Defibrillation
• Intravenous/intraosseous access (information only)
• Use of medications
• Cardioversion
• Transcutaneous pacing
• Team resuscitation concept (Team Leader and team member)

The course is also designed to discuss the following categories of cases through critical thinking and critical decision-making:

• Post–cardiac arrest care
• Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular emergencies
• Clinical pharmacology and toxicology emergencies
• Respiratory and metabolic emergencies

Intended For

This course is designed for seasoned ACLS providers who wish to renew their provider status by using critical decision-making strategies. Physicians and other healthcare professionals who respond to complex cardiovascular, respiratory, and other emergencies are encouraged to attend.

Learners are strongly encouraged to evaluate their knowledge and skill level before the course. The ACLS EP Course is designed to challenge learners in an interactive format, which requires a comprehensive understanding of ACLS algorithms and practice skills.

Course emphasis is at the Team Leader level, and minimal time is devoted to didactic material (ie, lectures). A learner who is not up-to-date with the current ACLS materials will have a difficult time keeping up with colleagues.

All students who meet the prerequisites and successfully pass the ACLS EP course will receive a course completion card. Receipt of a course completion card does not grant permission to practice the skills learned.