What Is the ATLS?
ATLS stands for Advanced Trauma Life Support. It is a training program that deals with the preparation of medical providers in the area of management of acute trauma cases.
What is the difference between ATLS 9 and ATLS 10?
There are several differences between ATLS 9 and ATLS 10:
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increased focus on a team approach
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updates in terminology
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updates in what are considered standard protocols
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updated procedures for administering blood and other fluids or medication
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updated injury classification (immediately life-threatening/potentially life-threatening)
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updated Glasgow Coma Scale
What is the latest edition of ATLS?
The latest edition of the ATLS program is the 10th edition, released in 2018.
It contains updated terminology and procedures for managing severely injured trauma patients.
How much does ATLS cost?
The cost of the ATLS program depends on the state/country you are taking it in. The type of program you are following will also impact the cost, as well as your status (resident/non-resident).
The most popular ATLS program, the provider course for non-residents, costs 900 pounds in the UK. In the US, it can reach upwards of $1040.
The other provider courses for residents range, on average, from $750 to $790.
The refresher course costs upwards of $650.
Courses for instructors/audit-only courses cost around $300.
This cost includes the 1-3 days of preparation, as well as the written and practical examinations.
Where can I take the ATLS?
You can take the ATLS at universities/medical centers in your area. It may also be available at the hospital you work at or other hospitals in your area.
The availability of the program will depend on your location, as well as your ability to travel if necessary.
To see where you can take the ATLS, access the American College of Surgeons website.
Can I retake the ATLS test?
You can retake the written ATLS test if you do not receive a passing score on your first attempt.
How many times can I take the ATLS exam?
You can take the ATLS test three times after you complete the course.
This means that you are allowed a total of three attempts: one initial test and two potential retakes.
If you do not receive a passing score after your third attempt, you will need to take the course again.
How soon can I retake the ATLS exam?
You can retake the ATLS test within three months after you complete the course.
If you do not receive a passing score within those three months, you will need to take the course again.
Can I reschedule my ATLS test?
Usually, you can reschedule your ATLS exam. You can expect a time window of up to a month before the program starts.
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Remember that this might not be the case for all the institutions that offer the program. You should carefully read the guidelines of your particular institution.
What do I do if I miss my ATLS exam because of an emergency?
If you miss your ATLS exam because of an emergency, you should contact your course coordinator.
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Remember that you are allowed three attempts for the written portion of the exam. Even if you miss the first one, you will be able to take it another time within three months of finishing the program.
What is the fail rate for ATLS?
The fail rate for the ATLS exam was last reported to be around 10.5%.
This means that around 89.5% of exam participants receive a passing score.
Does ATLS expire?
The ATLS expires after four years.
This means that if you want to keep your certification, you will have to retake the course and exams every four years.
You have 6 months from the expiration date of your certificate to take the 'refresher' course and then take your exam. If this period has passed, you will have to retake the entire 3-day course.
Can you fail ATLS?
You can fail the ATLS.
If you do not achieve the minimum score required, which is 80%, you will not receive the ATLS certification.
Who provides ATLS?
The ATLS is provided in the US by The American College of Surgeons.
They are also the originators of the program and its curriculum/requirements.
Is ACLS and ATLS the same thing?
ATLS and ACLS are not the same.
ATLS stands for Advanced Trauma Life Support, and it teaches professionals how to help trauma victims as quickly as possible.
ACLS stands for Advanced Cardiac Life Support.
What is the hybrid ATLS course?
The hybrid ATLS course is meant to replace the 'interactive discussion' section of the traditional course.
It consists of 13 online lectures that students can complete at their own pace. You will have to complete all 13 modules at least one week before your course date.
