This course aims to improve outcomes for pediatric patients by preparing healthcare providers to effectively recognize and manage patients with respiratory emergencies, shock, and cardiopulmonary arrest.  It is designed for healthcare professionals and emergency responders who participate in the management of pediatric emergencies.  Suggested participants include: physicians; nurses; paramedics; emergency medical technicians; respiratory therapists; physician assistants; medical or nursing students; and other allied health personnel. This course qualifies individuals for initial and renewal certification.  

This course will teach:

• Recognition of cardiopulmonary arrest and importance of high‐quality CPR
• Recognition and early interventions for respiratory distress and failure
• Recognition and early interventions for the treatment of shock
• Recognition of clinical characteristics of instability in patients with arrhythmias
• Management of post-cardiac arrest care

To successfully complete this course, one must complete all 3 of the following components. Part 1, an online cognitive portion and written exam; Part 2, a hands-on skills practice session where students have the opportunity for one-on-one practice time with an AHA PALS Instructor; and Part 3, a skills testing session.  Upon successful completion of all three parts, participants receive their healthcare provider course completion eCard.  Parts 2 and 3 will be completed on your registered date and time at the Tidewater Center for Life Support.  

*Part 1 must be completed prior to your registered date and time; all course participants will be issued a course key code from eLearning.heart.org that will provide access to the Part 1 of HeartCode PALS on the AHA website.  

**If the minimum number of required course participants is not met, a coordinator may reach out to you 2-3 business days prior to class to reschedule your session.

Click here to watch the HeartCode PALS video

The American Heart Association strongly promotes knowledge and proficiency in all AHA courses and has developed instructional materials for this purpose.  Use of these materials in an educational course does not represent course sponsorship by the AHA.  Any fees charged, except for the fees needed for AHA course materials, do not represent income to the AHA.