In this guide for nurses, you'll learn how to get your ACLS, PALS, or BLS certification online and remotely certify from the comfort of your home or office.
Nurses and other medical professionals are required to renew their ACLS, PALS, and BLS certifications at least once every two years. These certifications are crucial for preparing nurses to intervene during a medical emergency.
Due to the current coronavirus outbreak, many nurses have been asked to self-quarantine or minimize contact with others. Because nurses often work around people with weak immune systems and other medical issues, removing yourself from potentially hazardous situations will be especially important.
Fortunately, many nurses have been granted an extension on their certification expiration date due to the recent outbreak. However, if your ACLS, PALS, or BLS certification expires before the end of the month, you may be looking for an alternative method for completing your renewal exam. Fortunately, emedcert.com's innovative online platform makes it easy to stay up to date with your certifications and work from the comfort of your own home.
Below, we will discuss everything you need to know about online ACLS, PALS, and BLS recertification.
Table of Contents
Who Needs Online ACLS, PALS, and BLS Certification?
Even once you have become a registered nurse, you will likely be required to complete some additional certifications. ACLS certification, also known as Advanced Cardiac Life Support, is required for nurses who will be working with adults in a critical care setting. ACLS courses will cover several topics including administering CPR, using an AED, identifying medical emergencies, and many others.
PALS certification, also known as Pediatric Advanced Life Support, is required for nurses working with children and infants in a critical care setting. PALS covers most of the same material as ACLS, but with a specific focus on treating younger patients. BLS certification, also known as Basic Life Support, is another life-saving course that is required for many nurses working in a critical care setting. Once you have received your initial certifications, you will then be required to renew them every two years.
Related Article: What Certifications do Nurses Need for Working in the ER?
Do Online Certification Courses Have Any In-Person Requirements?
No. Whether you have been officially quarantined or are simply being cautious, it is crucial for nurses to avoid unneeded contact to the greatest extent they possibly can. If your ACLS, PALS, or BLS certifications are due to expire in the coming months, you should check with your employer about the possibility of completing the corresponding course online. If online courses are an option for you, then you simply need to sign up and complete the course from your computer, tablet, or mobile phone. Upon completion of the online exam, you will immediately receive a digital certificate of completion, in addition to a printed card that will arrive in the mail a few days later.
Do Online Certifications Provide Any Continuing Education Credits?
With multiple states requiring 20 or even 30 continuing medical education (CME) every two years, you may find yourself looking for opportunities for additional credits. Because you will already be required to renew your ACLS, PALS, and/or BLS certifications every two years, it is important to note that online courses still offer multiple credits.
For an ACLS certification, the initial course includes 8 CME credits and the renewal course includes 4 CME credits. A PALS certification also includes 8 credits for the initial course, along with 4 credits for renewal. BLS, on the other hand, offers 4 credits for the initial certification course and 2 credits for the renewal course.
For more information on the continuing education offered for all eMedCert courses, please see our Continuing Education page.
How Do Online ACLS, PALS, and BLS Certifications Work?
Online ACLS, PALS, and BLS certifications are surprisingly simple. All you need to do is purchase the course or courses you hope to complete, check out, and then you can begin studying the materials needed to complete the exam. Once you have studied all materials that are included with the course, you will then be able to complete a multiple-choice exam. You will need a score of at least 80% in order to pass the exam. If you do not pass the exam on your first attempt, you will have a chance to try again. Once the exam has been successfully completed, you will receive your proof of completion and will be able to continue practicing as a nurse. The process takes place entirely online and can be done entirely from the safety of your own home.
Additional Information on ACLS, PALS, and BLS Online Courses for Nurses:
- The Ultimate Guide to ACLS, BLS & PALS Certifications in Nursing
- Why Nurses Should Take ACLS Certification Courses Online
Conclusion
If you are a nurse, it will be important to stay up to date with all required certifications, regardless of whatever events are happening in the world. Luckily, online ACLS, PALS, and BLS courses make it easier than ever to renew your certifications before they expire. For more information about online nursing certification programs, course requirements, or general inquiries, contact the experts at eMedCert.