BLS/ACLS Certification: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn about the mandatory life-support certifications required for healthcare professionals working in hospital settings.
This certification provides essential life-support training for medical professionals working in clinical environments. These certifications are vital for ensuring that healthcare workers can respond effectively during medical emergencies.
Who it's for
This scheme is specifically designed for healthcare professionals. It is a requirement for those working in medical fields who must be prepared to manage life-threatening situations.
What you get
You receive mandatory life-support certification, such as BLS or ACLS. These certifications are often a requirement for hospital employment, ensuring that all staff members are trained in standard protocols like "Code blue training." Having these credentials is a critical part of maintaining your professional licensure and staying compliant with hospital standards.
What it costs you
To maintain your credentials, you will need to pay course fees every two years. Because these certifications are required for employment, you should plan for this recurring cost as part of your professional upkeep.
The catch to know
There are two important details to keep in mind to ensure your certification is valid for your job. First, your training must be AHA-certified to be recognized. Second, you must check your employer's specific policy regarding how the course is taken. Some hospitals do not accept online-only courses and may require you to attend an in-person session to complete your training.
How to apply
- Confirm with your employer which specific certification levels they require for your role.
- Find a training provider that is officially certified by the American Heart Association.
- Verify if your employer requires an in-person skills assessment or if they allow online-only course formats.
- Register for the course and complete the required training sessions to receive your certification.