Basic Information Regarding PALS Certification

By Olive Pate


Most cannot predict when there will be a medical emergency. This is why many take special classes and programs to become certified in various procedures used to save lives in these situations. It is important to be as prepared as possible. PALS stands for pediatric advanced life support. The goal of this is to improve the type of care that is given to children who are seriously injured or ill. It can save lives or better outcomes. PALS certification is available in many areas of the world.

Courses and programs on this topic provide students with education on responding effectively to medical emergencies that involve infants and kids. While these are lessons that everyone can benefit from learning, most of the people who take these courses are already involved in the health care field. They may be paramedics, nurses, physicians or other professionals who must be certified. It is common for this to be required for personnel in certain units.

Typically the courses are led by instructors in a classroom and are primarily video based. They utilize a series of pediatric emergencies to highlight the important components of a systematic approach to basic life support, effective resuscitation, PALS algorithms, team dynamic and pediatric assessment. Contents of the course may vary in some ways, but often involve different forms of infant and child CPR, as well as AED usage.

There are also simulations and discussions regarding shock, respiratory and cardiac cases. Changes in advanced life support for children, management of respiratory situations, resuscitation, electrical therapy and rhythm disturbances, and systematic approach to pediatric assessment. People should look into what the course entails and what is required for them to become officially certified.

Completing the entire course can take as many as 14 hours, which includes time for breaks and lunch. Some may only need an update course, which usually lasts for half the time. An update course without specific stations could only six hours to complete. People need to make sure they are enrolled in the right course or program.

Those who do the course correctly will receive a completion card, which certifies them for two years. In order to receive this card, they have to complete all the learning stations. Then, they have to receive a score of 84 percent or higher on a closed-book examination. Students must also pass different skills tests and PALS scenarios.

Costs of these courses, as well as the materials that may be needed to complete them, may differ based on training centers, instructors and other details. Generally, students will be expected to have PALS emergency crash cart cards, pocket reference card and a provider manual along with a pocket reference card. It may take a different amount of time for people to complete these programs. There are plenty of courses available in different areas of the world. Many can utilize the Internet for helpful information and resources related to PALS.

Medical emergencies can be intense and stressful. In many cases, the first care that is given carries great significance. This can improve patient condition and possible save lives. Infants and children may fall ill or become injured and need immediate medical attention, which may differ from that administered to adults. PALS educates health care providers and others on how to effectively care for these patients to see top results.




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