Course Description:
The essentials of rhythm recognition in about 45 minutes.
Short on time before your ACLS course? The Short Primer covers only what you'll need at the bedside. It teaches one routine to use on every strip, then the core ACLS rhythms and what each one means for your patient. It's built around the questions your team will actually ask: is there a pulse, is the rhythm shockable, and is the heart too fast or too slow?
What you'll learn
- A systematic approach: assess the patient first, read ECG paper, calculate rate, then check regularity, P waves, PR interval and QRS width.
- Core ACLS rhythms at a glance: sinus, atrial and junctional, ventricular and arrest rhythms, AV blocks and pacing.
- Rhythm check: a 12-question graded check on real rhythm strips.
Course details
- Online and self-paced, about 45 minutes
- 3 modules, 8 short lessons and an interactive practice activity
- Graded 12-question rhythm check: 80% to pass, unlimited attempts, with an explanation for every answer
Best for: providers who read rhythms regularly and want a quick refresh before class.
Important information:
Independent course. The ECG Short Primer, ECG Pre-course Refresher and ECG Refresher plus 12-lead are original educational courses developed by Life Safe Medical Training. They are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or delivered on behalf of Heart & Stroke, and they do not contain Heart & Stroke algorithms, drug doses or course materials. Heart & Stroke and ACLS course names are used only to describe the course these programs help you prepare for.
Not a certification. Completing a course does not provide ACLS, BLS or any other certification, and it does not replace attending a Heart & Stroke ACLS provider course. The certificate of completion confirms only that you completed the online course. Unless stated otherwise, these courses are not accredited for continuing education credit by any professional college or association.
Educational use only. Course content supports learning and does not replace clinical assessment, professional judgment, your employer's policies and protocols, medical direction, or the limits of your professional scope of practice. Always follow current resuscitation guidelines and the algorithms provided in your ACLS provider course.
Currency. Content reflects our understanding of practice at the time of writing (September 2026). Guidelines change, and learners are responsible for keeping their knowledge current.
Access and refunds. Courses are delivered online by invitation after registration. Please see our refund and cancellation policy before purchasing.