Pediatric Advanced Life Support | University-Hospital-EMSI

Lifesaving Skills for Medical Professionals

PALS Initial Provider Course

Overview:

The Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) Initial Provider Course is an American Heart Association–approved program designed for healthcare professionals who manage critically ill or injured infants and children. This course emphasizes the early recognition and management of pediatric respiratory failure, shock, and cardiopulmonary arrest using evidence-based resuscitation practices.

Participants will engage in hands-on skills training, case-based scenarios, and team-based simulations to strengthen clinical decision-making, communication, and leadership during pediatric emergencies. The course follows the 2025 AHA Guidelines and prepares learners to respond confidently in high-acuity pediatric situations.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

Recognize and manage respiratory distress, respiratory failure, and shock in pediatric patients
Apply PALS algorithms to pediatric cardiac arrest and peri-arrest situations
Demonstrate effective airway management and ventilation techniques
Interpret cardiac rhythms and initiate appropriate interventions
Perform high-quality CPR as part of a coordinated resuscitation team
Demonstrate effective communication and leadership during pediatric emergencies

Course Structure

This course includes a combination of:

Didactic Instruction

Pediatric assessment and early intervention
PALS algorithms and clinical decision-making
Cardiac rhythm recognition and pharmacology
Team dynamics and communication

Hands-On Training

High-fidelity pediatric resuscitation scenarios
Airway management and vascular access
Team-based megacode simulations
Skills evaluation and performance testing

This combined format ensures students gain the knowledge, physical skills, and real-world exposure needed for safe entry-level practice.

Course Materials

Applicants must:

Participants must use the 2025 AHA PALS Provider Manual
Books may be purchased at shopcpr.heart.org or borrowed from your department
A completed PALS online pretest must be brought to class
Renewal students must achieve a minimum score of 80%
A current, unexpired PALS card is required for renewal courses
Expired cards require enrollment in the Initial Provider course

Attendance Policy

Participants unable to attend must notify the training center at (440) 354-1284 prior to class.
Please leave your name, department, and reason for absence.
No-shows will be reported to the participant’s manager.
Classes may be cancelled if fewer than three (3) students are enrolled.