ACLS Course Syllabus

ACLS Course Syllabus: What the AHA ACLS Course Covers

The AHA ACLS course is built around a small number of core cases, each practised on a manikin with a rhythm simulator. This is the syllabus, topic by topic, with a link to our deeper guide on each one.

The syllabus in one line

BLS and the systematic approach → respiratory arrest and airway → cardiac arrest (VF/pVT, asystole/PEA) → post-arrest care → bradycardia and tachycardia → ACS and stroke → team dynamics → Megacode and written test.

The topics

  1. High-quality BLS — tested at the start. See the BLS course if yours needs refreshing.
  2. The systematic approach — BLS, primary and secondary assessment. See the ACLS systematic approach.
  3. Airway management and respiratory arrest — see ACLS airway management.
  4. Cardiac arrest: VF and pulseless VT — see the shockable pathway.
  5. Cardiac arrest: asystole and PEA — see the non-shockable pathway and the H’s and T’s.
  6. Post-cardiac arrest care — see post-arrest care.
  7. Bradycardia and tachycardia — see bradycardia and tachycardia.
  8. Acute coronary syndromes and stroke — see ACS and stroke.
  9. High-performance teams — roles, closed-loop communication and leadership, tested in the Megacode.

Supporting skills

Rhythm recognition (ACLS rhythms), resuscitation drugs (ACLS drugs), defibrillation, cardioversion and pacing (electrical therapy) and waveform capnography.

How the syllabus is assessed

High-quality BLS and airway skills tests, a Megacode that you lead, and a written test. See the ACLS pretest and exam, and warm up with ACLS practice questions.

What ACLS does not cover

Paediatric resuscitation is PALS; trauma resuscitation is ATLS — see ACLS vs ATLS.

Other life support and first aid courses: BLS Course · PALS Course · First Aid Course · Training calendar

Frequently asked questions

What topics are covered in ACLS?

The systematic approach, airway and respiratory arrest, cardiac arrest (shockable and non-shockable), post-arrest care, bradycardia, tachycardia, ACS, stroke and team dynamics.

Does ACLS include ECG interpretation?

Yes, recognition of the rhythms relevant to the algorithms is part of the course.

Does ACLS cover children?

No, paediatric resuscitation is taught in PALS.

Is the syllabus the same for HeartCode and classroom?

Yes; only the way the cognitive part is delivered differs.

How is ACLS assessed?

BLS and airway skills tests, a Megacode and a written test.

Book an AHA ACLS course in Abu Dhabi

Safety First Medical Services is an American Heart Association training centre on Al Reem Island. HeartCode blended ACLS, classroom ACLS and on-site group ACLS for hospitals and clinics, with a two-year AHA ACLS Provider eCard on completion.

See ACLS dates and register ACLS course overview Group booking enquiry

Sources and further reading

What we teach follows the awarding body and the UAE health authorities. For the definitive position on a course or licensing question, these are the places to check.

Last reviewed by the training team at Safety First Medical Services, an American Heart Association training centre at Addax Office Tower, Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. Call +971 55 761 9841 or email training@safetyfirstmed.ae.