The American Heart Association (AHA) Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) course is a scenario-based program that trains healthcare providers to rapidly recognize and intervene in pediatric pre-arrest and arrest states. The curriculum centers on the "Evaluate-Identify-Intervene" sequence, teaching a systematic approach to pediatric assessment alongside the critical management of respiratory emergencies, shock, and arrhythmias. Participants also gain hands-on experience with pediatric pharmacology, weight-based dosing, and electrical therapies like defibrillation and synchronized cardioversion, all while emphasizing high-performance team dynamics.

To succeed, students must be fully proficient in Child and Infant BLS and complete a mandatory pre-course self-assessment prior to attending. Certification is earned by passing an open-resource written exam and a hands-on "Megacode" practical evaluation, where the student must successfully lead a resuscitation team through a dynamic, simulated pediatric emergency. Upon completion, providers receive an AHA PALS certification valid for two years.

Typical participants include:

First Responders: Paramedics and advanced EMTs who manage critical pediatric patients in the prehospital setting.
Nursing Professionals: Registered nurses, as well as nursing students preparing for clinical roles in emergency departments, intensive care units, or pediatric wards.
Physicians & Advanced Practice Providers: Doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners.
Allied Health Professionals: Respiratory therapists and other clinical staff working in acute care or resuscitation environments.

AHA- Pediatric Advanced Life Support