UNDERSTANDING THE HEARTCODE ® PROGRAM
What is HeartCode ?
For several decades the traditional mode of learning CPR has been through 100 % classroom training . Now , the AHA , in coordination with Laerdal and HealthStream , offers an alternative approach to learning . HeartCode is the official , self-directed , comprehensive eLearning program from the AHA that uses Simulation technology and Voice-Assisted Manikins ( VAMs ) to teach Basic Life Support ( BLS ), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support ( ACLS ), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support ( PALS ) in adherence to the AHA Guidelines .
HeartCode teaches the same information as is covered in the classroom , but it enhances the learning experience of students by using Simulation technology to provide feedback that cannot be achieved through classroom teaching . In describing the program , the AHA reports : “ Through Simulation , students apply their knowledge to patient cases and see the results of their decision in realtime . Students gain experience about basic and advanced life support techniques in environments that imitate reallife , helping them prepare successful treatment plans in actual situations ” ( AHA , 2016 ).
How HeartCode Compares to Traditional Training Programs
HeartCode differs from traditional classroom training in its delivery , feedback capabilities , skill assessment , and cognitive components . The delivery of CPR learning with HeartCode looks very different than traditional classroom training . The self-guided learning approach transitions away from a live instructor , which is a major change for hospitals and students .
Feedback with HeartCode differs extensively from classroom-based learning . Differing from the traditional classroom model , the cognitive portion of HeartCode is completed online , on a desktop or laptop computer , and is module based , which allows the learning and testing to be rolled into one . The assessment of students ’ skills and knowledge of BLS , ACLS , and PALS algorithms is based on the students ’ performance during real-life simulations using the VAMs .
The student receives verbal feedback from the VAM , allowing the student to learn the precise compression depth and rate and the adequate volume of ventilations . Without the technology of VAMs , it is impossible for students to receive accurate feedback on the depth of compressions .
Advantages of HeartCode
Customers who have begun to use HeartCode in place of traditional classroom learning have experienced several benefits of making this transition , including standardization of training , more convenient learning , decreased costs , increased staff confidence , and even increased survival rates .
• Standardization of Training : Whereas there is a lot of room for subjectivity in the classroom , HeartCode training is objective due to the technology of the VAMs . Each student has to learn the same didactic information and perform the same skills at the same standard to pass the course .
• Convenience : The elimination of classroom learning sessions is a significant time saver for students . Students report that they prefer not to travel to a classroom for certification or recertification and that they love the availability of the program , and they can fit much of their required training sessions into their workday .
• Cost Comparison : Users of HeartCode have reported an extreme return on investment ( ROI ) and value and costs savings . With traditional classroom learning , there are course fees , instructor fees , student travel , materials and course completion cards to purchase . Additionally , students are paid their hourly rate for their time in the traditional classroom . This can be up to 16 hours with ACLS , whereas the ACLS HeartCode course takes between 4-6 hours . Significant time , and thereby cost , is saved due to the shortened course completion time with HeartCode .
• Confidence Levels : Students report that their confidence when responding to a code significantly increases with HeartCode training . Many hospitals have also reported that their staff responds more quickly to codes . Increased staff confidence levels have the potential to lead to improved staff satisfaction and better survival outcomes .
• Survival Rates : Hospitals that have made the switch to HeartCode have reported that their survival rates among patients who suffer cardiac arrest have increased . Based on their preliminary data , one hospital reported an improvement in its survival rates from 28 % to 80 %.
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