What does the acronym PALS stand for in ACLS?

The acronym PALS stands for Pediatric Advanced Life Support. This training program focuses specifically on the assessment and management of critically ill infants and children. It equips healthcare providers with the necessary skills to effectively respond to emergencies involving children, including those suffering from respiratory or cardiac arrest.

PALS is part of the continuum of advanced life support training, which also includes courses like ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) aimed at adults. Understanding PALS is crucial for healthcare professionals who care for pediatric patients, as the approach to treating children can differ significantly from adult care due to variations in anatomy, physiology, and emergency protocols tailored for younger patients. This distinction emphasizes the importance of specialized training in pediatric emergencies, making PALS an essential component of effective emergency medical education.