ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) builds on fundamental BLS (Basic Life Support) skills – so it’s easy to assume ACLS “includes” BLS. In reality, ACLS assumes you already know BLS and focuses on advanced clinical decision-making, algorithms, medications, team leadership, and post-arrest care.
No. ACLS courses do not include a full BLS curriculum or certification.
You are expected to be proficient in BLS before attending ACLS.
Many training centers and hospitals require a current BLS card to enroll in or validate ACLS.
ACLS scenarios are built on the assumption that high-quality CPR is already happening. During ACLS you’ll:
Run or participate in megacode scenarios (where BLS-quality compressions continue).
Make advanced decisions (airway, drugs, defib timing, rhythm interpretation).
Coordinate team roles and communication while CPR is ongoing.
Bottom line: BLS is the foundation; ACLS is the framework built on top.
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Policy Area
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What You’ll Likely See
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Why It Matters
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Enrollment |
Proof of current BLS may be required before ACLS |
Ensures you can perform high-quality CPR in ACLS |
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During ACLS |
BLS is assumed knowledge |
Time is spent on advanced algorithms, not basic CPR |
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Employment |
Many hospitals require both BLS and ACLS cards |
Compliance & competency for audits and practice |
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Recertification |
Both BLS & ACLS typically renew every 2 years |
Keeps skills current and policies compliant |
Tip: If your BLS is expiring soon, renew BLS first to avoid enrollment issues for ACLS.
BLS: All clinical staff (nurses, doctors, EMTs, dentists, students, techs) working in care settings.
ACLS: Staff in acute/critical care (ER, ICU, telemetry, OR/anesthesia, cath lab) and advanced EMS providers.
If you’re new to healthcare, start with BLS. If you’re moving into critical care, plan for BLS + ACLS.
Adult/child/infant CPR & AED
Choking relief
High-quality compressions & team roles
ECG rhythm recognition
Algorithms: cardiac arrest, bradycardia, tachycardia, post-ROSC
Pharmacology: epinephrine, amiodarone, atropine, etc.
Airway & team leadership in resuscitation
Notice: BLS skills are used during ACLS, but the BLS course & card are separate.
Practically speaking, you shouldn’t – and many centers won’t let you. Even if a provider allows it, your employer may still require a valid BLS card for credentialing.
Renew BLS first. It’s faster, cheaper, and often required.
If ACLS is scheduled soon, some centers allow same-day BLS renewal before ACLS (check locally).
Book BLS (choose in-person or blended learning with a skills check).
Review CPR quality: rate/depth, recoil, minimal interruptions.
Then schedule ACLS. Complete the ACLS pre-course assessment and review algorithms.
Assuming ACLS “covers” BLS and skipping BLS entirely
Letting BLS expire just before ACLS enrollment
Not practicing CPR quality (depth/rate/hand position), which weakens ACLS performance
Student/Intern/New Nurse? → Take BLS now.
Starting in ER/ICU/OR/Critical Care? → BLS + ACLS (often back-to-back).
Your BLS is expiring? → Renew BLS first, then ACLS.
Ready to enroll? Book BLS first, then ACLS—or choose a blended pathway to save time while staying fully compliant.
No. ACLS assumes BLS proficiency but does not include BLS certification or a full BLS curriculum.
Often yes. Many training centers and employers require a current BLS card for ACLS enrollment or compliance.
Renew BLS first. It prevents enrollment issues and ensures you’re ready to perform high-quality CPR during ACLS.
Many employers require recognized courses that include a hands-on skills component. Verify provider acceptance before enrolling.
Typically 2 years each. Plan renewals early to avoid lapses.
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