Preparing for your Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certification test can be quite challenging. The course content of ACLS goes beyond the basics, dealing with advanced airway management, ECG interpretation, pharmacology, and the integration of advanced medical interventions.
It requires dedication, structured study, and a clear understanding of advanced life support techniques to pass your ACLS test. In this blog, we will discuss some of the important topics you must cover before applying for the test.
Here are some effective study guides and strategies to ensure you are fully prepared to pass your exam easily.
ACLS Written and Practical Assessment
Written Assessment
The ACLS test comprises 50 multiple-choice questions, and a minimum score of 84% is necessary to pass. All American Heart Association assessments now allow students to refer to the ACLS manual, study aids, handouts, and notes while taking the exam.
Practical Assessment
The practical assessment evaluates hands-on skills and the ability to manage real-time cardiac emergencies. It includes evaluating the ability to demonstrate high-quality CPR, including correct compression depth and rate, with minimal interruptions.
11 Study Tips to Pass Your ACLS Test
Create a Study Schedule
Creating a proper and structured study schedule will help you decide and divide your time proportionally. A structured schedule will also provide consistent study sessions on various topics on ACLS. A structured study schedule is a must for better retention and understanding.
Review Current Guidelines and Updates
Staying up to date with ACLS guidelines and updates will help you gain insights into recent changes. Reviewing the current policies and updates also enables you to ensure that your knowledge is still relevant.
Understand Basic ECG
It is a basic requirement to understand basic ECG clearly for your ACLS exam. The whole point of ACLS training concerns identifying the patient’s heart rate and ECG rhythms. Usually, most people preparing for ACLS already have previous experience with ECGs. However, if you lack prior understanding, taking an ECG course before an ACLS class is recommended.
If you find certain topics in ECG confusing, there are various ways to clear the confusion. You can check out video tutorials on those topics and practice on ECG simulators. Having a clear understanding of basic ECG will ease your ACLS Exam.
Study ACLS Algorithm, H’s and T’s
Before taking your ACLS examination, it is essential to study various algorithms related to it. The algorithms contain procedures to follow for reacting to specific situations. This can determine the difference between the life and death of a patient, so it is necessary to clarify the concepts.
Here are some of the ACLS algorithms to memorize for your exam:
- Acute Coronary Syndrome Algorithm
- Adult Bradycardia Algorithm
- Adult Cardiac Arrest Algorithm
- Adult Suspected Stroke Algorithm
- Adult Tachycardia with Pulse
- Adult Immediate Post-Cardiac Arrest Care
- Opioid-Associated Life-Threatening Emergency Algorithm
- Unstable Tachycardia Algorithm
Hs and Ts are all the possible causes that could be present in the patient. You can use a mnemonic device method to help you remember. Here are some of the Hs and Ts you must memorize before your ACLS exam.
H’s:
- Hypoxia
- Hypovolemia
- Hydrogen ION (Acidosis)
- Hyper or Hypokalemia (High or Low Potassium)
- Hypothermia
T’s:
- Toxins
- Tension Pneumothorax
- Tamponade (Pericardial Tamponade)
- Thrombosis (Pulmonary Embolus)
- Thrombosis (Acute Coronary Syndrome)
Master Basic Life Support (BLS) Skills
ACLS is based on the principle of the BLS course. Proficiency in your BLS skills, including high-quality CPR and AED usage, will help you prepare for the ACLS test.
The fundamental concepts and principles of BLS include early recognition of cardiac arrest, which activates the emergency medical services. Therefore, acquiring BLS skills beforehand will increase your chances of performing better and confidently.
Memorize the Medication and Doses
The main approach to memorizing various ACLS algorithms is to perform medications and identify doses. Identifying the appropriate medication and doses for any medical emergency is crucial.
One popular method of memorizing is using mnemonic devices. These devices can trigger quick memory retention, which would greatly help in ACLS exams. You can also use flashcards to note the various medications and engage in active learning by quizzing yourself or a co-worker preparing for the same test.
Take Mock Exams
You can enroll in practice tests to get the idea and sneak peek into readiness without committing to an actual exam. Mock tests can be extremely helpful in giving you an idea of the structure pattern of real tests.
Taking a practice test before applying for ACLS certification is a great way to test your knowledge. The more practice tests you can take before the real thing, the better it will be for you. So, look for some online sites that provide free practice tests where you can test your knowledge.
Have a Proper Sleep Before your Test
During sleep, your brain processes and consolidates information you have learned throughout the day. This helps you retain and recall information more effectively during the exam. Adequate sleep enhances cognitive functions such as attention, concentration, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking, essential for performing well on exams.
Remember, it’s not just about the night before the exam. Prioritizing sleep in the days before the exam can maximize these benefits and directly impact your exam performance.
Start The Test with an Easy Question
Avoid getting stuck on that one complex question. Starting with questions you know well can build your confidence and reduce anxiety. Easy questions usually take less time to answer, allowing you to accumulate points quickly.
Tackling difficult questions first can lead to getting stuck and wasting time. Successfully answering easy questions early on can reduce stress and help you stay calm throughout the exam. Therefore, starting the test with an easy question can be a valuable strategy for maximizing exam performance.
Take Your Time
Taking your time allows you to carefully read and understand each question, reducing the likelihood of misinterpretation. When you are not rushing, you can deliver more detailed and complete answers. But it does not mean being slow; it means allocating time wisely to all questions. You will feel confident when you are in control of time.
Before starting, quickly scan the questions and allocate time to each question based on its difficulty and point value. Monitor the clock to ensure you stay on track with your time allocations. Staying on track will give you a sense of accomplishment and keep you motivated.
Follow the Exam Instructions Carefully
Ensure you are answering in the correct format and addressing what is being asked. Following the exam instructions carefully is crucial for maximizing your performance and avoiding unnecessary mistakes. It also prevents you from losing points for not following specific guidelines. Ensure you use the specified answer format and clearly label your answers if required. After completing the exam, review your answers and ensure you have followed all instructions properly.
What to Do If You Fail the ACLS Test?
Failing the ACLS test can be disheartening, but seeing it as an opportunity to learn and improve is important. Here are some steps you can take if you fail the ACLS test:
- Look at the areas where you lost points. Identifying your weak spot is the first step for improvement.
- Revisit your study materials and review the content thoroughly. Focus on the areas where you struggled.
- Joining a study group is very lucrative. Studying with peers can provide additional perspectives and tips.
- Familiarize yourself with the algorithms and protocols through repetition.
Failing a test is not uncommon, and many healthcare professionals go through the same experience. Just stay motivated and persistent in your efforts to pass the test. Once you feel more confident in your knowledge and skills, schedule a retest of the test.
Start your ACLS Certification Program at Sacramento CPR Classes
You can confidently approach the test by following the various study tips and strategies outlined in this blog. Creating a study schedule, reviewing current guidelines, mastering ECG interpretation, understanding ACLS algorithms, and solidifying your BLS skills are essential steps. With thorough preparation and a dedicated mindset, you can excel in your ACLS exam and be well-equipped to handle life-saving situations.
Enroll now in our Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification class at Sacramento CPR Classes. Our extensive training program, led by experienced instructors, equips you with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively to cardiac emergencies.