About
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is an advanced, instructor-led course that builds on BLS to prepare clinicians to manage cardiopulmonary arrest, peri-arrest rhythms, and acute coronary and stroke emergencies using evidence-based algorithms and high-performance team skills.
Course focus
Learners practice early recognition and management of respiratory and cardiac arrest, symptomatic bradycardia and tachycardia, acute coronary syndromes, and stroke, emphasizing continuous, high-quality CPR and effective team communication.Content includes airway management, rhythm interpretation, and resuscitation pharmacology integrated into scenario-based megacode simulations.
Key skills and topics
High-quality BLS skills with AED use, airway management, and ventilation strategies.
Recognition and treatment of arrest rhythms (VF/pVT, PEA, asystole) and peri-arrest rhythms (bradycardia, tachycardia).
Management of acute coronary syndromes and stroke, including post–cardiac arrest care and systems of care.
Format and prerequisites
Available as instructor-led or blended HeartCode with online modules followed by in-person skills and megacode testing.
AHA Precourse Self-Assessment is recommended; current BLS Provider status is commonly required before skills sessions.
Certification
Successful participants receive an American Heart Association ACLS Provider eCard, valid for two years through the end of the issue month, accepted by employers and regulators nationwide.
Who should attend
Physicians, nurses, paramedics, and other healthcare and emergency response professionals who lead or participate in the management of adult cardiovascular emergencies.