ACLS Certification: Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support
ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) certification builds on BLS for providers who manage cardiac arrest and peri-arrest emergencies — including ECG rhythm recognition, IV/IO access, and resuscitation drugs.
- Prerequisite: current BLS certification
- Course length: 10–12 hours initial, 5–6 hours renewal
- Cost: $200–$350 typical
- Covers VF/VT, asystole/PEA, bradycardia, tachycardia, ACS, and stroke
Who needs ACLS
ED nurses and physicians, ICU staff, paramedics, anesthesia providers, cath lab teams, and rapid response clinicians. Most hospitals require ACLS for any role responding to code blue events.
What you'll be tested on
Megacode scenarios apply the cardiac arrest, bradycardia, and tachycardia algorithms with simulated team leadership. A written exam (passing ~84%) covers pharmacology and rhythms.
Preparing efficiently
Pre-read the ACLS Provider Manual, run rhythm-recognition flashcards, and practice closed-loop communication. Knowing the algorithms cold matters more than memorizing drug doses.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need BLS before ACLS?
- Yes — current BLS certification is required to enroll and to credential after class.
- Is ACLS harder than BLS?
- Substantially. ACLS expects rhythm interpretation, pharmacology, and team leadership under pressure.
- How often must I renew ACLS?
- Every 2 years. Renewal courses are shorter because they assume current competency.