The Most Common Mistakes People Make When Getting ACLS Certified

As per a study in the International Journal of Medical Research & Health Sciences,26.4% of healthcare professionals felt unsure about their CPR skills just six months after training. About 65.8% reported no change, and only 7.8% felt more confident. These numbers show something important: getting certified doesn’t always mean you’ll feel ready when it matters.

Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)  certification is meant to prepare you for high-pressure medical emergencies. But if you make a few common mistakes during the training, you might leave with a certificate, but still feel unsure about what to do in real situations.So, how do you avoid that? How do you make sure your ACLS training actually helps when the time comes? 

Let’s walk through the most common mistakes you should avoid when you get your ACLS Certification and what you can do instead.

These Common Pitfalls in ACLS Certification

The ACLS certification allows you to learn several healthcare basics and key skills associated with medical emergencies. However, there are certain pitfalls that you must avoid compulsorily when getting ACLS certified. These are:

Underestimating the Complexity of the Course

ACLS is not a basic CPR class because it requires a deeper understanding of cardiac rhythms, pharmacology, and protocols. Many candidates assume it’s just a step above Basic Life Support (BLS), but it’s a significant leap in terms of knowledge and application.

What to do instead:
Start preparing early. Review advanced cardiac concepts, understand electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretations, and get familiar with common medications used during resuscitation, such as epinephrine, amiodarone, and adenosine.

Neglecting to Refresh BLS Skills

BLS forms the foundation of ACLS protocols. If you're rusty on your BLS skills, you may find it hard to execute ACLS scenarios properly, especially during megacode simulations or written exams.

What to do instead:
Revisit your BLS training and ensure you’re proficient with chest compressions, ventilation techniques, and the use of automated defibrillators (AEDs). ACLS builds on these basics, so they must be second nature.

Not Studying the Provider Manual Thoroughly

The ACLS Provider Manual is a recommended resource that everyone is advised to study and understand when pursuing the certification. Many participants make the mistake of glancing over it or skipping chapters, assuming they'll figure things out during the class.

What to do instead:
Read the entire manual thoroughly. Pay close attention to the algorithms, case scenarios, and pharmacology sections. Use the included pre-course assessment to evaluate your understanding before the actual training begins.

Skipping the Pre-Course Self-Assessment

Almost every certified ACLS program includes a pre-course self-assessment. Some learners ignore this step, thinking it’s optional or not critical to their success. The self-assessment proves your readiness and highlights areas you need to work on. Skipping it means you might walk into class unprepared, increasing your chances of failure.

What to do instead:
Take the assessments associated with the ACLS certifications seriously. If you score poorly, take time to review the problem areas before class.

Overlooking ECG Interpretation Skills

A major component of ACLS involves reading and interpreting ECGs. If you're not comfortable identifying rhythms like  Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT), Ventricular Tachycardia (VTach), Ventricular Fibrillation (VFib), or asystole, you will struggle in both the course and real-world applications.

What to do instead:
Practice ECG strips daily, leading up to the course. Use flashcards, apps, or online quizzes to improve your rhythm recognition. You don’t need to be a cardiologist to understand these requirements, but basic proficiency is non-negotiable.

Failing to Memorize the Algorithms

ACLS is highly algorithm-based. During a code, decisions need to be made quickly, and relying on memory during stress is hard if you haven’t practiced.

What to do instead:
Memorize key algorithms, especially those for cardiac arrest, bradycardia, and tachycardia with or without a pulse. Repetition is key. Print them out and place them where you’ll see them daily.

Lack of Confidence During Simulation Scenarios

Some candidates may freeze or panic during the megacode because they’re nervous or unsure. ACLS training often includes a hands-on megacode scenario where you're expected to lead or participate in a simulated cardiac emergency.

What to do instead:
Practice mock scenarios with peers or use simulation apps. Even rehearsing aloud can help. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel during the real evaluation.

Not Participating Actively During Class

If you sit quietly during ACLS training and don't engage with the material, you miss the opportunity to reinforce what you're learning. Passive learning rarely leads to successful retention.

What to do instead:
Ask questions and actively engage in group discussions when attending ACLS training classes. Volunteer during simulations to understand real-life scenarios. Your involvement can boost your confidence and ensure you know the material well.

Depending Solely on In-Class Learning

ACLS courses are usually fast-paced. If you go in expecting to learn everything during the class sessions without any prior preparation, you're setting yourself up for failure.

What to do instead:
Supplement your learning with online courses, apps, videos, and quizzes before the ACLS class. This blended approach improves your understanding and boosts retention.

Ignoring the Importance of Team Dynamics

ACLS certification is all about learning how to work in a team under pressure. Being a poor communicator or failing to delegate during a simulation can result in failure.

What to do instead:
Familiarize yourself with the principles of effective team dynamics, such as closed-loop communication, clear leadership, and role delegation. Watch videos demonstrating these skills in action.

Failing to Bring Required Materials

Some learners show up without necessary documents, such as their pre-course assessment completion certificate, identity document (ID), or even the provider manual.

What to do instead:
Carefully read your course confirmation email and checklist. Make sure you arrive with all required documentation and materials to avoid administrative delays or disqualification.

Waiting Too Long to Renew

ACLS certifications are valid for two years. Waiting until the last minute to renew can lead to expired credentials, added pressure, and even the need to retake the full course instead of a renewal class.

What to do instead:
Schedule a reminder 3 to 6 months before expiration. This gives you ample time to refresh your knowledge and schedule your renewal without stress.

Choosing the Wrong Provider or Course Format

Not all ACLS providers offer the same quality of training. Some may rush through material or not follow AHA guidelines, leaving you poorly prepared.

What to do instead:
Choose an authorized training center or a trusted institution. Also, decide whether in-person, blended learning (online + in-person), or virtual options best suit your learning style.

Misunderstanding the Role of Pharmacology

Many participants underestimate the importance of understanding drug use in cardiac emergencies. Knowing the correct dosage and timing can make or break a successful code.

What to do instead:
Study the commonly used ACLS drugs, their indications, contraindications, and dosages. Use mnemonics or flashcards to help with memorization.

Not Practicing Enough Post-Certification

Just passing the course isn’t enough. If you don't keep practicing, you’re likely to forget what you learned, making you less effective during actual emergencies.

What to do instead:

Keep reviewing ACLS protocols regularly. Participate in mock codes or simulation labs whenever possible. Stay updated on any guideline changes released by the AHA.

Get Your ACLS Certification Now!

Getting ACLS certified is a key achievement for any healthcare professional. However, you must ensure to perform optimally in real-life cardiac emergencies to truly benefit from the training. For this, you must also approach the process with proper preparation and a focused mindset. You can easily set yourself up for success both in the classroom and in the field by avoiding these common mistakes. So when you're ready to take the next step in your professional journey, prepare well, stay focused, and get your ACLS certification with confidence.