Pears/pals/acls

[jpregulman]

Morning all!

I am an EMT-B however I am want to learn more about ACLS and such. Would it be useful for me to take an PEARS/PALS/ACLS course? I know I can't use most of the material that I learn in practice. I am also working as the health center manager at a camp this summer, I was thinking these could be useful in assisting the dr and nurse. Thanks for the thoughts!

 

[NomadicMedic]

This has been discussed frequently. While we never pooh pooh additional education, in most cases the merit badge classes like ACLS and PALS are useless to EMTs based on the lack of basic supporting education. These classes aren't really designed to teach any theory, they're simply "flap A into slot b" classes that teach a systematic response to specific scenarios. Since you can not practice any of these skills, it's usually a waste of time.

Take A&P instead.

 

[jpregulman]

I guess I should also mention that I am an nursing student, so I will be doing some of this stuff later. I am taking A&P right now, and it is kicking my butt! So your saying that I would be better off doing a CE lecture on the topic rather than take the AHA course?

 

[NomadicMedic]

I believe it's a waste of time to take these classes at this point in your EMS training. But, that is my opinion and YMMV.

 

[chaz90]

Take the alphabet soup classes when they are required and not before. I learned very little of any value in ACLS, PALS, and PHTLS. Continue your studies in anatomy and physiology, and learn why each intervention is recommended.

 

[jpregulman]

That sounds good. I think I am going to go to a few CE lectures and see what I can learn from them. I was not looking forward to paying the price of the AHA courses. Thanks!!!

 

[Aprz]

I agree with other people; it's a waste of time and money to take at this point.

 

[Uclabruin103]

That sounds good. I think I am going to go to a few CE lectures and see what I can learn from them. I was not looking forward to paying the price of the AHA courses. Thanks!!!

While the class might not be of too much benefit, the PHTLS book is an interesting read with some useful information for everyone I feel. I bought my book used for a very reasonable amount.