PALS Certification: Overview and FAQ
If you’re a nurse who regularly works with children and infants, you may be looking into getting a pediatric advanced life support (PALS) certification to expand your skills or meet the requirements of a new job. This certification is given to healthcare providers who complete a valid course and demonstrate the ability to provide emergency care for pediatric patients.
If you’re not sure how to obtain a PALS certificate, this article is for you. We’ll provide an overview of what this credential is, outline the steps needed to obtain it, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the certification process.
What Is PALS Certification for Nurses?
PALS is a certification program that trains healthcare workers on how to respond to cardiorespiratory emergencies (e.g., shock and cardiac arrest) in infants and children. The most widely accepted program is offered by the American Heart Association (AHA), which also provides the basic life support (BLS) training that you may already be familiar with.
All types of healthcare providers are eligible to sign up for a PALS course. However, this certification can be particularly beneficial, and often required, for pediatric nurses working in:
The PALS course equips healthcare providers with a range of skills to treat pediatric patients in life-threatening situations. These skills include:
- Recognizing interventions for respiratory and cardiac emergencies.
- Effective and timely pediatric assessment and diagnostic tests.
- Communication and teamwork skills needed during a resuscitation.
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and post-resuscitation management.
- Cardiorespiratory monitoring and management.
- Selection and administration of appropriate medications and therapies.
- Rapid capsular access for administration of fluid and medications.
How Do You Get PALS Certified? 3 Steps
Now, let’s explore the necessary steps to obtain your PALS certification. Costs will vary by program and institution. However, most facilities will cover any fees associated with getting certified. So, it’s important to check with your employer before registering for a course.
1. Complete Your Prerequisites
A BLS certificate is required for virtually every patient-facing role in the healthcare industry. Because of this, most PALS programs require healthcare providers to show proof of BLS certification in order to register. Learn more about how to obtain your BLS certification.
If you’re planning on taking an AHA-approved course, you’ll also be required to take and score at least a 70% on a precourse self-assessment. This assessment helps gauge your current skills and whether you need to review any additional material prior to attending a course.
2. Register for a PALS Course in Your Area
Once you’ve completed your prerequisites, you can register for a PALS course. Many different institutions offer PALS training, but AHA-approved programs are the most widely accepted by healthcare employers. Visit the AHA’s website to find an AHA-approved course near you.
The AHA also offers an online PALS course that you can purchase and complete at home. However, this online course must be completed in addition to an in-person session with a trainer in order for you to become PALS certified.
3. Complete the Course and Pass the Exam
Once you’ve registered, you’ll need to attend the PALS course and pass an open-book exam. Instructors will typically administer the exam at the end of the course on the same day. This exam should reflect the information you learn during the training session and from your pre-assessment preparation. Upon completing your course and passing the exam, you’ll be able to claim your electronic certificate card.
Frequently Asked Questions: PALS Credential
How long does it take to get PALS certification?
The length of a PALS course will vary by institution and format. If you’re planning on taking an AHA-approved course, these typically last between 8 to 17 hours total and may be offered over 1 to 2 days.
What is the passing score for the PALS exam?
For the AHA-administered exam, all test-takers must receive a minimum score of 84% to pass and receive a PALS certificate card. This is in addition to completing all other required course components.
If you happen to fail your exam, don’t stress. PALS instructors are trained to guide you through your mistakes and will often offer one to two immediate retakes.
How long does PALS certification last?
PALS certificates are valid for two years. Once your certificate expires, you’ll need to take a PALS recertification course. Since employers may require nurses to maintain an active PALS certificate, it’s best to complete your recertification requirements before your current certification expires.
Is online PALS certification valid?
There are currently no valid PALS training courses that are offered solely online. However, you can take AHA’s approved online course component prior to completing the in-person skills training and assessment.
Be wary of institutions that offer online-only PALS training. There are many hands-on skills that can only be effectively taught in person, and these courses will most likely leave you feeling underprepared.
What is the difference between ACLS and PALS?
ACLS and PALS both teach essential skills in emergency care and management, but they’re geared toward different populations. An ACLS certificate should be obtained by healthcare providers who work with adults, while a PALS certificate is for providers who work with children and infants.
Got Your Credentials? Now It’s Time to Find the Right Job
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