HSCI 0050. Introduction to Advanced Life Support

Units: 3.5
Prerequisite: Completion of HSCI 2 with grade of "C" or better, or a similar state certified EMT course; must be currently certified as an EMT in the state of California or certified through the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT)
Advisory: Completion of HSCI 3 and BIOL 55 with grades of "C" or better
Hours: 80 (60 lecture, 20 laboratory)
Introduction to the advanced knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to prepare for a paramedic program, advanced emergency medical technician (AEMT) training, registered nursing (RN), physician assistant (PA), and other allied health training programs. Assessment based course focuses on advanced life support (ALS) interventions; electrocardiogram (EKG) recognition and interpretation; pharmacology; advanced airway management; intravenous and intraosseous fluid and drug infusion; basic anatomy, physiology and principles of pathophysiology; introduction to local, state and national ALS protocols. Practical skills labs focus on improving patient assessment techniques, managing realistic case study scenarios, and introduction to AEMT, paramedic skills, protocols, and interventions. Course format is interactive and simulates the intense pace and discipline required of AEMT, paramedic and other allied health vocational training. Mandated student participation, passing of written exams and practical skills assessments required for completion. Course is approved for eighty (80) hours of instructor based continuing education (CE) by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) and as a California state EMS CE Provider. (CSU)