Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Registration / Course Fees:
- Do you offer free CPR or First Aid courses?
- How do I register for a course or skills session?
- I purchased my blended learning course through Desert Education Solutions. How do I register for my skills session after I complete the online portion?
- Why do I have to pay for my class in advance? Do you accept walk-ins?
- I do not have a credit or debit card. Do you have another way that I can pay for my class?
- Do you accept cash, checks, or money orders?
- Is it safe to provide my payment online?
- I need to change my registration. What are the course rescheduling and refund policies?
- When will I receive my course completion or Provider card?
- I need my course completion card right away. How can you help me get my card quickly?
- My employer said they will not accept handwritten CPR cards. Are your cards handwritten?
- How long is my card valid? What if I have an expired card that needs to be renewed?
- I lost my course completion card(s). How do I get a replacement?
- Is there any difference in the course completion cards issued if I take the classroom course versus the blended learning course?
- What is the difference between Heartsaver® and Healthcare Provider (HCP) courses?
- What are the differences between the Heartsaver® First Aid-CPR-AED course versus the Heartsaver® Pediatric First Aid-CPR-AED course?
- My school / employer told me that they will not accept online CPR courses, so does that mean that I must take the classroom version of your course?
- Why do I need a book for the class? My last class did not require one.
- Do I need to bring a pocket mask for training?
- Do I need to purchase a textbook for a blended learning course?
- I bought my textbook, but there was no option to ship it to my house before class. Can I still pickup the textbook before the class?
- Can I renew my BLS during an ACLS, PALS, or PEARS course?
- Can I still take the renewal course for ACLS or PALS if my card is expired?
- Who teaches the courses?
Do you offer free CPR or First Aid courses?
No. We are a private company that is not funded by the American Heart Association or any other organization or governmental entity.
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No. We are a private company that is not funded by the American Heart Association or any other organization or governmental entity.
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How do I register for a course or skills session?
To register for a classroom-based or blended learning course, click on Class Registration, scroll down to the class you need. First Aid. First Aid CPR AED, CPR AED, BLS, ACLS, and PALS have classroom-based as well as a blended learning option. Select which option you would prefer, and click on the button under the corresponding column to get started.
For those who purchase a blended learning package, including all Heartsaver courses, the information is included in your registration confirmation email.
For all others who may have acquired a code through their employer or from the AHA directly, visit the class schedules and registration page, and select the "Skills Session Only" option. Register and supply the required information, including the certificate number, and payment.
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To register for a classroom-based or blended learning course, click on Class Registration, scroll down to the class you need. First Aid. First Aid CPR AED, CPR AED, BLS, ACLS, and PALS have classroom-based as well as a blended learning option. Select which option you would prefer, and click on the button under the corresponding column to get started.
For those who purchase a blended learning package, including all Heartsaver courses, the information is included in your registration confirmation email.
For all others who may have acquired a code through their employer or from the AHA directly, visit the class schedules and registration page, and select the "Skills Session Only" option. Register and supply the required information, including the certificate number, and payment.
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I purchased my blended learning course through Desert Education Solutions. How do I register for my skills session after I complete the online portion?
Provided that you purchased the blended learning course through us, you were e-mailed a keycode link to access the eLearning.heart.org site for Part 1 of your class. Read your confirmation email for instructions, or contact us if you have misplaced it.
You will also receive a confirmation email for the upcoming skills session after registering online. You do not need to call to schedule your skills session, as this is done through the procedure described in your email.
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Provided that you purchased the blended learning course through us, you were e-mailed a keycode link to access the eLearning.heart.org site for Part 1 of your class. Read your confirmation email for instructions, or contact us if you have misplaced it.
You will also receive a confirmation email for the upcoming skills session after registering online. You do not need to call to schedule your skills session, as this is done through the procedure described in your email.
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Why do I have to pay for my class in advance? Do you accept walk-ins?
We start classes on-time, and walk-in registrations will delay the check-in process.
Because we strictly adhere to AHA teacher-to-student ratios, we require registrations to be paid in advance of the class. Therefore, we kindly ask that you pay for your course in advance, so that time and material resources are not needlessly wasted and we can guarantee a place for you in the class.
Our registration system will accept class registrations all the way up until the class start time, provided that there are still seats available. We encourage students to register early, as certain courses tend to fill up faster than others. We cannot guarantee your seat without proper pre-registration and payment.
ACLS and PALS require precourse work to be completed before the class. Without the required completion certificate, you will not be able to attend class as a walk-in.
These policies are in place to ensure course quality, punctuality, and fairness to other students.
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We start classes on-time, and walk-in registrations will delay the check-in process.
Because we strictly adhere to AHA teacher-to-student ratios, we require registrations to be paid in advance of the class. Therefore, we kindly ask that you pay for your course in advance, so that time and material resources are not needlessly wasted and we can guarantee a place for you in the class.
Our registration system will accept class registrations all the way up until the class start time, provided that there are still seats available. We encourage students to register early, as certain courses tend to fill up faster than others. We cannot guarantee your seat without proper pre-registration and payment.
ACLS and PALS require precourse work to be completed before the class. Without the required completion certificate, you will not be able to attend class as a walk-in.
These policies are in place to ensure course quality, punctuality, and fairness to other students.
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I do not have a credit or debit card. Do you have another way that I can pay for my class?
Contact us and we can arrange for an alternate way to register and pay for your class.
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Contact us and we can arrange for an alternate way to register and pay for your class.
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Do you accept cash, checks, or money orders?
We do not accept personal checks or money orders. Cash payments should have exact change.
For onsite course materials purchases, such as textbooks, accessories, or pocket masks, we accept credit / debit cards at our facilities. We do not have any reserve cash at our facilities, and are therefore unable to provide change for cash transactions.
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We do not accept personal checks or money orders. Cash payments should have exact change.
For onsite course materials purchases, such as textbooks, accessories, or pocket masks, we accept credit / debit cards at our facilities. We do not have any reserve cash at our facilities, and are therefore unable to provide change for cash transactions.
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Is it safe to provide my payment online?
Absolutely. Payments are processed securely, utilizing 256-bit encryption so your payment and registration information remains 100% safe from your computer / tablet / smartphone over the Internet. Our website uses 100% SSL connections that protect your personal information.
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Absolutely. Payments are processed securely, utilizing 256-bit encryption so your payment and registration information remains 100% safe from your computer / tablet / smartphone over the Internet. Our website uses 100% SSL connections that protect your personal information.
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I need to change my registration. What are the course rescheduling and refund policies?
See our Course Policies page for full details regarding course changes and refunds.
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See our Course Policies page for full details regarding course changes and refunds.
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When will I receive my course completion or Provider card?
Immediately (with certain restrictions). Your eCard is issued following your successful completion of your class or skills session. For BLS, ACLS, PALS, and PEARS, the eCard is issued after successful completion of the examination and score verification. For skills sessions and all other courses, the eCard is issued immediately at the end of the in-person class.
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Immediately (with certain restrictions). Your eCard is issued following your successful completion of your class or skills session. For BLS, ACLS, PALS, and PEARS, the eCard is issued after successful completion of the examination and score verification. For skills sessions and all other courses, the eCard is issued immediately at the end of the in-person class.
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I need my course completion card right away. How can you help me get my card quickly?
The online portion of our blended learning courses can be completed from home or work, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you need to get your course completion card quickly, we recommend that you sign up for the blended learning version of the course.
We work hard to make sure that all of our participants can get (or keep) their training current - minimizing the possibility of losing work hours due to expired course completion cards. Your course completion eCard will be issued immediately following the skills session, and there is absolutely no difference between the classroom based version versus the blended learning format when your eCard is issued. Either option results in the issuance of a genuine, American Heart Association eCard that is valid for a full two years.
Blended learning courses satisfy the requirements for initial or renewal course completion in all AHA courses. Keep in mind that the time to complete the online module will vary from student-to-student.
The blended learning course format is also an excellent option for travel RNs who might take an assignment that requires advanced training such as ACLS and/or PALS. Either training facility is located approximately 25 minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport, making us an easy option if you are arriving in Phoenix for your assignment. If your employer / agency reimburses you for expenses, you have the convenience of only having to submit a single receipt.
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The online portion of our blended learning courses can be completed from home or work, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you need to get your course completion card quickly, we recommend that you sign up for the blended learning version of the course.
We work hard to make sure that all of our participants can get (or keep) their training current - minimizing the possibility of losing work hours due to expired course completion cards. Your course completion eCard will be issued immediately following the skills session, and there is absolutely no difference between the classroom based version versus the blended learning format when your eCard is issued. Either option results in the issuance of a genuine, American Heart Association eCard that is valid for a full two years.
Blended learning courses satisfy the requirements for initial or renewal course completion in all AHA courses. Keep in mind that the time to complete the online module will vary from student-to-student.
The blended learning course format is also an excellent option for travel RNs who might take an assignment that requires advanced training such as ACLS and/or PALS. Either training facility is located approximately 25 minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport, making us an easy option if you are arriving in Phoenix for your assignment. If your employer / agency reimburses you for expenses, you have the convenience of only having to submit a single receipt.
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My employer said they will not accept handwritten CPR cards. Are your cards handwritten?
Never. All of the cards we issue are eCards through AHA, and those can be verified online through the unique eCard code issued with each card.
We guarantee that your school or employer will accept our First Aid, BLS, ACLS, PALS, and PEARS course completion / Provider eCards.
eCards are printable, in either a full-sized or wallet-sized format.
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Never. All of the cards we issue are eCards through AHA, and those can be verified online through the unique eCard code issued with each card.
We guarantee that your school or employer will accept our First Aid, BLS, ACLS, PALS, and PEARS course completion / Provider eCards.
eCards are printable, in either a full-sized or wallet-sized format.
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How long is my card valid? What if I have an expired card that needs to be renewed?
Your eCard is considered valid through the last day of the month in which it was issued, plus two years. So, for example, if your eCard was issued on 8/5, the card is valid through August 31st two years later.
Our courses meet the requirements for initial or renewal training, except for ACLS or PALS. Generally, if your card has expired more than 2 years ago, you will need to take the initial course for ACLS or PALS. Contact us for specific guidance in your situation.
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Your eCard is considered valid through the last day of the month in which it was issued, plus two years. So, for example, if your eCard was issued on 8/5, the card is valid through August 31st two years later.
Our courses meet the requirements for initial or renewal training, except for ACLS or PALS. Generally, if your card has expired more than 2 years ago, you will need to take the initial course for ACLS or PALS. Contact us for specific guidance in your situation.
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I lost my course completion card(s). How do I get a replacement?
Your card(s) are digital, so they are not lost. You will need to log back into the AHA eCards system to retrieve your card(s).
The AHA eCards system can be accessed from https://ecards.heart.org/student/myecards.
If you are unable to log into the system (forgot password), you must contact AHA customer support at 1-800-242-8721, as we do not have access to your AHA account information.
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Your card(s) are digital, so they are not lost. You will need to log back into the AHA eCards system to retrieve your card(s).
The AHA eCards system can be accessed from https://ecards.heart.org/student/myecards.
If you are unable to log into the system (forgot password), you must contact AHA customer support at 1-800-242-8721, as we do not have access to your AHA account information.
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Is there any difference in the course completion cards issued if I take the classroom course versus the blended learning course?
There is absolutely no difference in the course completion cards issued following completion of a course in either format. The AHA requires that either format requires an in-person skills evaluation by an AHA-certified instructor. The AHA does not permit ANY course completion cards to be issued without the in-person component verifying skills mastery. Research conducted by the AHA has actually found that courses taken with the online didactic format result in better learning and retention of the concepts, up to 35%. We offer either format for convenience in BLS, ACLS, or PALS, as well as to support those learners who do not prefer blended learning courses.
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There is absolutely no difference in the course completion cards issued following completion of a course in either format. The AHA requires that either format requires an in-person skills evaluation by an AHA-certified instructor. The AHA does not permit ANY course completion cards to be issued without the in-person component verifying skills mastery. Research conducted by the AHA has actually found that courses taken with the online didactic format result in better learning and retention of the concepts, up to 35%. We offer either format for convenience in BLS, ACLS, or PALS, as well as to support those learners who do not prefer blended learning courses.
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What is the difference between Heartsaver and Healthcare Provider (HCP) courses?
Heartsaver courses are designed primarily for lay-rescuers and are open to all participants, regardless of occupation or background. HCP courses are for people who are (or will be) professionally-licensed in a healthcare profession, or for those who are currently enrolled in programs that lead toward licensure. Basic Life Support (BLS) covers all of the material found in Heartsaver CPR/AED with some additional components directed toward team resuscitation efforts, such as bag-mask ventilation, support for advanced airways, and multi-rescuer situations. Note that BLS Provider is the new title that replaced the former "BLS for Healthcare Providers," so it is still the required course for all those who work in a professional healthcare capacity.
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Heartsaver courses are designed primarily for lay-rescuers and are open to all participants, regardless of occupation or background. HCP courses are for people who are (or will be) professionally-licensed in a healthcare profession, or for those who are currently enrolled in programs that lead toward licensure. Basic Life Support (BLS) covers all of the material found in Heartsaver CPR/AED with some additional components directed toward team resuscitation efforts, such as bag-mask ventilation, support for advanced airways, and multi-rescuer situations. Note that BLS Provider is the new title that replaced the former "BLS for Healthcare Providers," so it is still the required course for all those who work in a professional healthcare capacity.
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What are the differences between the Heartsaver First Aid-CPR-AED course versus the Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid-CPR-AED course?
Both of these Heartsaver® courses are designed primarily for lay-rescuers and are open to all participants, regardless of occupation or background. Each course covers treatment of adults, children, and infants, but the pediatric version goes into a deeper focus on the treatment of infants, children, and adolescents than the standard course. The pediatric version also covers additional material, such as the management of asthma, allergies, and treating a drowning victim, that is only briefly covered in the standard course. The pediatric version is more appropriate for those people who primarily work with children, or for parents and grandparents, as it covers more first aid topics in greater detail as it pertains to pediatric populations. The pediatric version is also certified to meet regulatory training requirements for childcare workers in all 50 states.
EITHER course meets the CPR / First Aid training requirements for childcare workers as specified in the Arizona Administrative Code, Title 9, R-5-403(B)(1)(b)(i). The pediatric version also meets additional requirements as specified in R-5-403(B)(1)(b)(iv-vi).
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Both of these Heartsaver® courses are designed primarily for lay-rescuers and are open to all participants, regardless of occupation or background. Each course covers treatment of adults, children, and infants, but the pediatric version goes into a deeper focus on the treatment of infants, children, and adolescents than the standard course. The pediatric version also covers additional material, such as the management of asthma, allergies, and treating a drowning victim, that is only briefly covered in the standard course. The pediatric version is more appropriate for those people who primarily work with children, or for parents and grandparents, as it covers more first aid topics in greater detail as it pertains to pediatric populations. The pediatric version is also certified to meet regulatory training requirements for childcare workers in all 50 states.
EITHER course meets the CPR / First Aid training requirements for childcare workers as specified in the Arizona Administrative Code, Title 9, R-5-403(B)(1)(b)(i). The pediatric version also meets additional requirements as specified in R-5-403(B)(1)(b)(iv-vi).
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My school / employer told me that they will not accept online CPR courses, so does that mean that I must take the classroom version of your course?
No. With the proliferation of the many 100%-online courses that you take from home and print your "certification" card yourself, many schools and employers unconditionally refuse to accept these courses because there is not an in-person skills validation part, nor is there control or validation that the named participant actually took the course. In addition to those concerns, there is also no guarantee that the programs adhere to AHA guidelines and science principles.
None of our online courses are 100%-online, as that option is not permitted per the AHA. The courses we offer are "blended learning" that have both online and in-person components that can often save time and provide greater flexibility for the learner. You are still required to schedule a skills session in order to demonstrate your skills in-person with a certified AHA instructor. The blended learning options that we offer simply provide you the ability to view the required videos and take your written test online, allowing you to save time and complete the teaching (didactic) portion of the course at your own pace. It is during the skills practice and testing session (done in-person) that you will be coached and evaluated, as well as have the opportunity to ask questions or receive additional instruction. Your course completion eCard will be issued after successful demonstration of all required skills. The course completion eCard issued is identical to the eCards issued at the end of a classroom session, and there is absolutely no way for anyone to discern whether or not the blended learning option was taken versus the traditional classroom-based course.
We guarantee that your BLS, ACLS, or PALS eCard will be accepted by your school or employer whether you take the blended learning or classroom-based course. We provide a much safer alternative than taking the 100%-online courses, as many students that have taken these courses in the past have wasted time and money on a "certification" that is not accepted by their agency.
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No. With the proliferation of the many 100%-online courses that you take from home and print your "certification" card yourself, many schools and employers unconditionally refuse to accept these courses because there is not an in-person skills validation part, nor is there control or validation that the named participant actually took the course. In addition to those concerns, there is also no guarantee that the programs adhere to AHA guidelines and science principles.
None of our online courses are 100%-online, as that option is not permitted per the AHA. The courses we offer are "blended learning" that have both online and in-person components that can often save time and provide greater flexibility for the learner. You are still required to schedule a skills session in order to demonstrate your skills in-person with a certified AHA instructor. The blended learning options that we offer simply provide you the ability to view the required videos and take your written test online, allowing you to save time and complete the teaching (didactic) portion of the course at your own pace. It is during the skills practice and testing session (done in-person) that you will be coached and evaluated, as well as have the opportunity to ask questions or receive additional instruction. Your course completion eCard will be issued after successful demonstration of all required skills. The course completion eCard issued is identical to the eCards issued at the end of a classroom session, and there is absolutely no way for anyone to discern whether or not the blended learning option was taken versus the traditional classroom-based course.
We guarantee that your BLS, ACLS, or PALS eCard will be accepted by your school or employer whether you take the blended learning or classroom-based course. We provide a much safer alternative than taking the 100%-online courses, as many students that have taken these courses in the past have wasted time and money on a "certification" that is not accepted by their agency.
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Why do I need a book for the class? My last class did not require one.
The American Heart Association requires that ALL participants have access to their own provider manual or student workbook before, during, and after the course. BLS, ACLS, PALS, or PEARS courses taught that do not require the students to have their own textbooks are in violation of AHA policy (including those who may provide students with books for use during the class, but do not allow the student to take the book with them when they leave). We are firmly committed to adhering to all AHA policies and regulations to protect the integrity of the certification cards we issue.
Therefore, every participant in our classroom-based courses in which an AHA course completion card is issued must have his or her own provider manual or student workbook as applicable to the course. For BLS, ACLS, PALS, or PEARS, we do offer the provider manual for purchase, if needed, at registration or at class check-in time. You do not need to purchase a provider manual from us if you already have a book, or prefer to purchase one from another source.
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The American Heart Association requires that ALL participants have access to their own provider manual or student workbook before, during, and after the course. BLS, ACLS, PALS, or PEARS courses taught that do not require the students to have their own textbooks are in violation of AHA policy (including those who may provide students with books for use during the class, but do not allow the student to take the book with them when they leave). We are firmly committed to adhering to all AHA policies and regulations to protect the integrity of the certification cards we issue.
Therefore, every participant in our classroom-based courses in which an AHA course completion card is issued must have his or her own provider manual or student workbook as applicable to the course. For BLS, ACLS, PALS, or PEARS, we do offer the provider manual for purchase, if needed, at registration or at class check-in time. You do not need to purchase a provider manual from us if you already have a book, or prefer to purchase one from another source.
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Do I need to bring a pocket mask for training?
We provide sanitary mouth barriers free of additional charge for use during the class in giving mouth-to-manikin breaths. If you would prefer to have your own personal mask, we also offer a pocket mask with a case, disposable gloves, and alcohol wipes for an additional fee. This can be a handy tool for you to take with you after the course to keep with you in case you have the opportunity to perform bystander CPR. While recommended, it is not required to participate in training.
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We provide sanitary mouth barriers free of additional charge for use during the class in giving mouth-to-manikin breaths. If you would prefer to have your own personal mask, we also offer a pocket mask with a case, disposable gloves, and alcohol wipes for an additional fee. This can be a handy tool for you to take with you after the course to keep with you in case you have the opportunity to perform bystander CPR. While recommended, it is not required to participate in training.
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Do I need to purchase a textbook for a blended learning course?
No. Access to the electronic version of the provider manual or student workbook is included in the course fee for two years following the activation of Part 1.
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No. Access to the electronic version of the provider manual or student workbook is included in the course fee for two years following the activation of Part 1.
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I bought my textbook, but there was no option to ship it to my house before class. Can I still pickup the textbook before the class?
Book shipping is available for an additional charge, but is only available as an option for registrations made at least ten (10) business days in advance for BLS, ACLS, PALS, and PEARS courses. To absolutely ensure that you receive the textbook in time for class, our system will not offer the shipping option if this window of time is less than 10 business days.
If you do not select to have the book shipped, you will receive the book at class check-in. There is not an option to pick up the book before your check-in time.
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Book shipping is available for an additional charge, but is only available as an option for registrations made at least ten (10) business days in advance for BLS, ACLS, PALS, and PEARS courses. To absolutely ensure that you receive the textbook in time for class, our system will not offer the shipping option if this window of time is less than 10 business days.
If you do not select to have the book shipped, you will receive the book at class check-in. There is not an option to pick up the book before your check-in time.
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Can I renew my BLS during an ACLS or PALS course?
Yes. You may add this option when registering for ACLS, PALS, or PEARS. We offer BLS Provider renewal through having the student complete the required skills checks as well as the 25-question written exam for BLS. The additional time needed to complete these requirements will vary by student, however, this is a convenient alternative to taking two completely separate classes. Keep in mind that ACLS, PALS, and PEARS do not supersede the requirement for healthcare providers to maintain a current BLS Provider eCard.
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Yes. You may add this option when registering for ACLS, PALS, or PEARS. We offer BLS Provider renewal through having the student complete the required skills checks as well as the 25-question written exam for BLS. The additional time needed to complete these requirements will vary by student, however, this is a convenient alternative to taking two completely separate classes. Keep in mind that ACLS, PALS, and PEARS do not supersede the requirement for healthcare providers to maintain a current BLS Provider eCard.
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Can I still take the renewal (update) course for ACLS or PALS if my card is expired?
The renewal (update) course for ACLS or PALS is designed for previous students who have taken the American Heart Association ACLS or PALS class. If your card(s) have recently expired (within the past 24 months), the renewal course should still give you the skills needed for re-certification. Contact us if you have any specific questions regarding the difference between the initial and renewal class formats.
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The renewal (update) course for ACLS or PALS is designed for previous students who have taken the American Heart Association ACLS or PALS class. If your card(s) have recently expired (within the past 24 months), the renewal course should still give you the skills needed for re-certification. Contact us if you have any specific questions regarding the difference between the initial and renewal class formats.
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Who teaches the courses?
Our instructors have completed instructor training by the American Heart Association. All of our advanced classes are taught by currently-licensed healthcare professionals.
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Our instructors have completed instructor training by the American Heart Association. All of our advanced classes are taught by currently-licensed healthcare professionals.
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Can I get my American Heart Association instructor certification through Desert Education Solutions? Are you accepting new instructors?
Yes, nationwide (with restrictions). The first step is to complete the Instructor Inquiry Form, and we will respond to you within 48 hours regarding the next steps in the process.
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Yes, nationwide (with restrictions). The first step is to complete the Instructor Inquiry Form, and we will respond to you within 48 hours regarding the next steps in the process.
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Are you owned, sponsored, or operated by the American Heart Association?
No. We are a privately-held company that is an authorized training provider of AHA courses, and as such, we are not owned, sponsored, or operated by the American Heart Association.
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No. We are a privately-held company that is an authorized training provider of AHA courses, and as such, we are not owned, sponsored, or operated by the American Heart Association.
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The American Heart Association strongly promotes knowledge and proficiency in all AHA courses and has developed instructional materials for this purpose. Use of these materials in an educational course does not represent course sponsorship by the AHA. Any fees charged for such a course, except for a portion of fees needed for AHA course materials, do not represent income to the AHA.