Pediatric Emergency Medicine Medical Professionals

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ATLS?: Developed by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Committee on Trauma Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) is a systematic and concise approach to the early care of the trauma victim.

The ATLS course provides an organized approach for evaluation and management of seriously injured patients. The participants are given a foundation of common knowledge for all members of the trauma team. The course is applicable in both large urban centers and small rural emergency departments.
What does the ATLS course teach?: The student provider course lasts two days and teaches medical core content in an interactive format. Hands-on skill sessions are done in a simulated trauma setting. Successful completion status is valid for 4 years from course date.
Who should take the ATLS course?: The ATLS course is designed for physicians who care for injured patients. Only physicians may be certified in ATLS. Certification is good for four years.
Why should I take the ATLS Course?: ATLS is recognized as the basic, minimium preparation for trauma resuscitation. The ACS requires ATLS training for all trauma surgeons and ED physicians at a trauma center. All physicians on the trauma panel are encouraged to take ATLS.
Where can I take ATLS?: UH Rainbow Pediatric Trauma Center offers classes one to two times a year, based on need. Check this site for the next scheduled class.
Are special considerations given to UH employees when registering for ATLS?: Yes. Applicants who are required to have ATLS as part of the UH Rainbow Pediatric Trauma Center receive first preference at registration. Priority is also give to employees of UH affiliates and other UH Cleveland Medical Center staff.
What is the tuition for ATLS?: Tuition is paid by the Trauma Service for all UH Cleveland Medical Center physicians on the trauma panel or required to have ATLS for the trauma center. The Trauma Service may subsidize tuition for other UH physicians as arranged on an individual basis.
Are CME credits given for the ATLS Course?: Yes, the ACS designates that this offering meets the criteria for hour-for-hour credit in Category 1.
Is there a Refresher course?: Yes, a Refresher course is offered in a half day or a one day course format. It provides the physician the opportunity to maintain a current ATLS status. The course includes content overview, triage scenarios, a written and practical test.
I'm not a physician but would like to take ATLS. Is this possible?: Yes. Each ATLS class can accommodate a small number of non-physicians to audit the course, commonly RNs, paramedics, SAs or PAs. Contact the course coordinator at 216-844-3829 to see if space is available.
May I obtain an ATLS Student course manual?: The student manual is only available to students registered for an ATLS Provider class and can not be purchased individually.