ACLS stands for Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support. It is a set of clinical guidelines for the urgent and emergent treatment of life-threatening cardiovascular conditions that will cause or have caused cardiac arrest, using advanced medical procedures, medications, and techniques. ACLS is an advanced, evidence-based course designed to equip healthcare providers and medical professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to respond effectively to cardiac emergencies, such as cardiac arrest, stroke, and other life-threatening conditions.
ACLS builds on the foundation of lifesaving Basic Life Support (BLS) skills, emphasizing the importance of continuous, high-quality CPR. The course teaches basic life support skills, including effective chest compressions, use of a bag-mask device, and use of an AED, recognition and early management of respiratory and cardiac arrest, recognition and early management of peri-arrest conditions such as symptomatic bradycardia, airway management, related pharmacology, management of ACS and stroke, and effective communication as a member and leader of a resuscitation team.
ACLS is geared towards healthcare professionals who either direct or participate in the management of cardiopulmonary arrest or other cardiovascular emergencies or personnel in emergency response. Upon successful completion of the course, students receive a course completion card, valid for two years.
