AHA Provider Course
Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
The PALS Provider Course aims to improve outcomes for pediatric patients by preparing healthcare providers to effectively recognize and intervene in patients with respiratory emergencies, shock, and cardiopulmonary arrest by using high-performance team dynamics and high quality individual skills. The course includes a series of case scenario practices with simulations that reinforce important concepts. Upon successful completion of all the patient cases, students must pass the multiple-choice exam with a minimum score of 84%.
Duration
Format
Certification
Class Size
Who Should Attend
PALS Course Options
PALS Provider Initial Course
The PALS Provider Initial Course is designed for healthcare professionals who are taking Pediatric Advanced Life Support for the first time. This instructor-led classroom course focuses on improving outcomes for infants and children experiencing respiratory emergencies, shock, or cardiopulmonary arrest.
Participants learn through hands-on practice, case-based discussions, and realistic simulations that reflect real pediatric emergency situations. The course emphasizes early recognition, effective intervention, high-quality CPR, and the use of PALS algorithms. Strong focus is also placed on team dynamics, communication, and individual performance during pediatric resuscitation.
This course typically runs over two days and includes both skills testing and a written exam. Upon successful completion, participants receive an AHA PALS Provider certification card valid for two years.
PALS Provider Update Course
The PALS Provider Update Course is intended for healthcare professionals who already hold a current or recently expired PALS certification. This renewal-focused course reviews core PALS concepts while incorporating the latest AHA guideline updates.
The course includes targeted simulations, pediatric rhythm recognition, respiratory and shock management, and team-based emergency response. Because this is an update course, it moves at a faster pace and assumes prior PALS knowledge and experience.
This option is ideal for experienced providers who want an efficient, instructor-led renewal while maintaining hands-on skills. After successful completion, participants receive a renewed AHA PALS Provider card valid for two years.
HeartCode PALS Provider
HeartCode PALS Provider is a blended learning option that combines online education with an in-person skills session. The online portion is completed at your own pace through the American Heart Association’s interactive learning platform.
Learners work through pediatric emergency scenarios that focus on assessment, decision-making, and application of PALS algorithms. After completing the online modules, participants attend a hands-on skills session to demonstrate competency in pediatric resuscitation, airway management, and team communication.
This option is suitable for both initial certification and renewal and works well for healthcare professionals who need flexible scheduling. Successful completion results in an AHA PALS Provider certification valid for two years.
HeartCode PALS Skills Only
Participants demonstrate required PALS skills, including pediatric CPR, airway management, recognition of respiratory failure and shock, and effective team performance. Instructors provide guidance and feedback to ensure all AHA performance standards are met.
Once the skills session is successfully completed, participants receive their AHA PALS Provider certification card, valid for two years. This option is ideal for experienced providers who have completed the online course and only need skills verification.
What You’ll Learn
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: Who should take the PALS course?
Q: Do I need BLS certification before taking PALS?
Q: What is the difference between PALS Initial, Update, and HeartCode PALS?
Q: How long is the PALS certification valid?
A: After successful completion, the American Heart Association PALS Provider certification is valid for two years.
Q: What should I bring to the PALS class?
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