Class Schedule

The Resuscitation Sciences Training Center at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is an accredited training center offering numerous resuscitation-based courses to assist the public and healthcare professionals with skills and knowledge in resuscitating infants, pediatrics, and adults. We are affiliated with and offer courses via: 

  • American Academy of Family Physicians - BLSO
  • American Academy of Pediatrics - NRP 
  • American College of Surgeons - ATLS
  • American Heart Association - ACLS EP, ACLS, BLS, HeartSaver, PALS, PEARS, 
  • Emergency Nurses Association - TNCC, ENPC
  • National Association of EMTs - AMLS, AHDR, EMSS, EPC, GEMS, PHTLS, PTEP
  • Resuscitation Quality Improvement 

  • Effective 07/01/21, RSTC is permitted to allow community members and non PSH employees into our courses.  The following conditions must be satisfied: 

    • You must be vaccinated
    • Mask must be worn at all times
    • Social distancing must be enforced as possible with training requirements
    • Room size limitations must remain
    • Visitor screening must occur at the main hospital entrance.  
    • you will need to make prior arrengments to be escorted to your class.  Call 717-531-1834  
ACLS Experienced Provider

ACLS for Experienced Providers goes beyond the core ACLS training by offering critical thinking opportunities for those advanced, experienced, healthcare professionals who use ACLS on a regular basis. The goal of ACLS EP is to improve outcomes in complex cardiovascular, respiratory and other (e.g., metabolic, toxicologic) emergencies by expanding on core ACLS guidelines and encouraging critical thinking and decision-making strategies. Through cooperative learning and active participation in case-based scenarios, learners enhance their skills in the differential diagnosis and treatment of prearrest, arrest and postarrest patients.

For those who have advanced understanding in performing BLS and ACLS skills, reading and interpreting ECGs, understanding ACLS pharmacology; and who regularly lead or participate in emergency assessment and treatment of prearrest, arrest, or postarrest patients.  

What do I need to do before class?  What do I bring with me to class?  

  • Complete the ACLS EP pretest.  Request the pretest by contacting RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.  FAILURE TO BRING YOUR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION WILL RESULT IN YOUR EXPULSION FROM THE COURSE. 
  • Review the course textbook. Textbooks are available in the Harrel Library and can be purchased online from a variety of sellers. 

What should I wear to a live class?  

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems. 

How much does the course cost? 

If you are a PSH or PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  

  • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course.
  • Failure to show.
  • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion.

If you are not a PSH or PSU COM employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course.   

How do I cancel?   

  • If you are a PSH or PSU COM employee/student withdraw on Compass. 
  • If you are not a PSH or PSU COM employee/student contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

Where’s my card?  

RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

Wait, I have a question about...?  

If you have any questions about the course, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834. 

ACLS HeartCode/Skills

We recommend HeartCode as an alternative to the more traditional "update/renewal".  Note the online program/test for HeartCode takes approximately 3 hours.  

The AHA’s ACLS course builds on the foundation of lifesaving BLS skills, emphasizing the importance of preventing cardiac arrest, early and continuous high-quality CPR, and high-performing teams. The course reflects science and education from the 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC). For healthcare professionals who either direct or participate in the management of cardiopulmonary arrest or other cardiovascular emergencies and for personnel in emergency response.  Topics include:

  • Basic life support skills, including effective chest compressions, use of a bag-mask device, and use of an AED 
  • Recognition and early management of respiratory and cardiac arrest 
  • Recognition and early management of peri-arrest conditions such as symptomatic bradycardia 
  • Airway management 
  • Related pharmacology 
  • Management of ACS and stroke 
  • Effective communication as a member and leader of a resuscitation team  

What do I need to do before class?  What do I bring with me to class? 

  • Complete the ACLS HeartCode online program/test.  Request the ACLS HeartCode online program/test by contacting RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834. FAILURE TO BRING YOUR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION WILL RESULT IN YOUR EXPULSION FROM THE COURSE. 
  • Review the course textbook, which can be accessed via the HeartCode program/test. Textbooks are available in the Harrel Library and can be purchased online from a variety of sellers if you wish to have a hardcopy. 

What should I wear to a live class?  

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems. 

 How much does the course cost? 

If you are not a PSH employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course. 

If you are a PSH or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  

  • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course. 
  • Failure to show. 
  • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion. 

How do I cancel?   

  • If PSH or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass. 
  • If not PSH or PSU COM employee/student, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

Where’s my card?  

RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

Wait, I have a question about...? 

If you have any questions about the course, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

ACLS Provider

For healthcare professionals who either direct or participate in the management of cardiopulmonary arrest or other cardiovascular emergencies and for personnel in emergency response.  The AHA’s ACLS course builds on the foundation of lifesaving BLS skills, emphasizing the importance of preventing cardiac arrest, early and continuous high-quality CPR, and high-performing teams. The course reflects science and education from the 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC). Topics include: 

  • Basic life support skills, including effective chest compressions, use of a bag-mask device, and use of an AED 
  • Recognition and early management of respiratory and cardiac arrest 
  • Recognition and early management of peri-arrest conditions such as symptomatic bradycardia 
  • Airway management 
  • Related pharmacology 
  • Management of ACS and stroke 
  • Effective communication as a member and leader of a resuscitation team  

What do I need to do before class?  What do I bring with me to class?  

  • Go to elearning.heart.org.
  • in the search bar on the upper right type in ACLS Precourse
  • Scroll down to the "ACLS PRECOURSE SELF ASSESSMENT AND PRECOURSE WORK" modules and select "Launch this course".
  • When complete, it will say your name "...has completed the video lessons and pre-course self assessment".
  • Following completion you must select "Survey" and complete the survey. 
  • Then select "Certificate" and print it. FAILURE TO BRING YOUR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION WILL RESULT IN YOUR EXPULSION FROM THE COURSE.
  • Problems with your pre-course work?   Call AHA at 1-888-242-8883 M-F 8-5 CST
  • Review the course textbook. Textbooks are available in the Harrel Library and can be purchased online from a variety of sellers. The textbook can be used for the written test.

 What should I wear to a live class?  

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems. 

 How much does the course cost?  

If you are not a PSH employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course. 

If you are a PSH or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  

  • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course. 
  • Failure to show. 
  • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion.  

 How do I cancel?   

  • If PSH or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass. 
  • If not PSH or PSU COM employee/student, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

Where’s my card?  

RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

Wait, I have a question about...?  

If you have any questions about the course, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

ACLS Update/Renewal

As an alternative to this update/renewal course, consider HeartCode.  HeartCode allows you to test your knowledge online - at your own pace - and then come to the Sim Center for a live, skills check. 

For healthcare professionals who either direct or participate in the management of cardiopulmonary arrest or other cardiovascular emergencies and for personnel in emergency response.  The AHA’s ACLS course builds on the foundation of lifesaving BLS skills, emphasizing the importance of preventing cardiac arrest, early and continuous high-quality CPR, and high-performing teams. The course reflects science and education from the 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC). Topics include:  

  • Basic life support skills, including effective chest compressions, use of a bag-mask device, and use of an AED 
  • Recognition and early management of respiratory and cardiac arrest 
  • Recognition and early management of peri-arrest conditions such as symptomatic bradycardia 
  • Airway management 
  • Related pharmacology 
  • Management of ACS and stroke 
  • Effective communication as a member and leader of a resuscitation team  

What do I need to do before class?  What do I bring with me to class?  

  • Go to elearning.heart.org.
  • type in the search bar on the upper right ACLS Precourse.
  • Scroll down to the "ACLS PRECOURSE SELF ASSESSMENT AND PRECOURSE WORK" modules and select "Launch this course".
  • When complete, it will say your name "...has completed the video lessons and pre-course self assessment".
  • Following completion you must select "Survey" and complete the survey. 
  • Then select "Certificate" and print it. FAILURE TO BRING YOUR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION WILL RESULT IN YOUR EXPULSION FROM THE COURSE.
  • Problems with your pre-course work?   Call AHA at 1-888-242-8883 M-F 8-5 CST
  • Review the course textbook. Textbooks are available in the Harrel Library and can be purchased online from a variety of sellers. The textbook can be used for the written test.

 What should I wear to a live class?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems. 

 How much does the course cost?  

If you are not a PSH employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course. 

If you are a PSH or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  

  • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course. 
  • Failure to show. 
  • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion.  

 How do I cancel?   

  • If PSH or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass. 
  • If not PSH or PSU COM employee/student, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

Where’s my card?  

RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

Wait, I have a question about...?  

If you have any questions about the course, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

 

AMLS Skills VIRTUAL

Advanced Medical Life Support (AMLS) remains the gold standard of education for emergency medical assessment and treatment. Endorsed by the National Association of EMS Physicians, AMLS emphasizes the use of the AMLS Assessment Pathway, a systematic tool for assessing and managing common medical conditions with urgent accuracy. 

In the third edition of AMLS, students learn to recognize and manage common medical crises through realistic case-based scenarios that challenge students to apply their knowledge to highly critical patients.  The course emphasizes the use of scene size-up, first impression, history, interactive group discussion on differential diagnosis and potential treatment strategies, and physical exam to systematically rule out and consider possibilities and probabilities in treating patients’ medical crises. The third edition AMLS library of patient simulations offers students an opportunity to apply critical thinking skills to a variety of patient presentations. Additional features include patient simulation monitor images and ECGs provided by iSimulate, to enhance students’ experience. 

What does this course teach? 

  • Respiratory disorders 
  • Cardiovascular disorders 
  • Shock 
  • Sepsis 
  • Neurological disorders 
  • Endocrine/Metabolic disorders 
  • Environmental emergencies 
  • Infectious disease 
  • Abdominal disorders 
  • Toxicological emergencies 
  • Exposure to hazardous materials 

Precourse Work 

  • Complete the AMLS online program/test.  Request the AMLS online program/test by contacting RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834
  • Review the course textbook. Textbooks are available in the Harrel Library.  Textbooks can also be purchased online from a variety of sellers.  For any questions, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.    

 How much does the course cost?  

If you are not a PSH employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course. 

If you are a PSH MSHMC employee or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  

  • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course. 
  • Failure to show. 
  • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion.

 How do I cancel?   

  • If PSH employee or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass. 
  • If external, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

 Where’s my card?  

RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

 Wait, I have a question about...?  

If you have any questions about the course, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

BLS HeartCode/Skills

The AHA’s BLS Course is designed for healthcare professionals and other personnel who need to know how to perform CPR and other basic cardiovascular life support skills in a wide variety of in-facility and prehospital settings. Topics include:

  • High-quality CPR for adults, children, and infants 
  • The AHA Chain of Survival, specifically the BLS components 
  • Important early use of an AED 
  • Effective ventilations using a barrier device 
  • Importance of teams in multirescuer resuscitation and performance as an effective team member during multirescuer CPR 
  • Relief of foreign-body airway obstruction (choking) for adults and infants 

What do I need to do before class?  What do I bring with me to class? 

  • Complete the BLS HeartCode online program by contacting RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834 and requesting the online program. FAILURE TO BRING YOUR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION WILL RESULT IN YOUR EXPULSION FROM THE COURSE.  

What should I wear to a live class?  

​Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems.

How much does the course cost? 

If you are not a PSH employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course.

If you are a PSH or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  

  • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course. 
  • Failure to show.
  • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion. 

How do I cancel?   

  • If PSH or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass. 
  • If not PSH or PSU COM employee/student, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834. 

Where’s my card?  

RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

Wait, I have a question about...? 

If you have any questions about the course, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

EPC Skills

The Emergency Pediatric Care (EPC) course focuses on critical pediatric physiology, illnesses, injuries and interventions to help EMS practitioners provide the best treatment for sick and injured children in the field.  The course stresses critical thinking skills to help practitioners make the best decisions for their young patients. 

 What does this course teach? 

  • The pathophysiology of the most common critical pediatric emergency issues, and critical thinking skills to help practitioners make the best decisions for their patients. 
  • Application of the Pediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT), a tool to help EMS practitioners rapidly and accurately assess pediatric patients. 
  • The importance of family-centered care. 
  • Understanding and communicating with children. 
  • Airway management, breathing and oxygenation. 
  • Cardiac emergencies. 
  • Recognizing child abuse and neglect. 
  • Hypoperfusion and shock. 
  • Newborn resuscitation. 

Precourse Work 

  • Complete the EPC online program by contacting RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834 and requesting the online program. 

 What do I bring with me?  

You must print certificate of completions of the pre-course work, if applicable. FAILURE TO BRING YOUR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION WILL RESULT IN YOUR EXPULSION FROM THE COURSE.    

 What should I wear to a live class?  

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems. 

 How much does the course cost?  

If you are not a PSH employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course. 

If you are a PSH MSHMC employee or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  

  • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course. 
  • Failure to show. 
  • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion. 

 How do I cancel?   

  • If PSH employee or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass. 
  • If external, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

 Where’s my card?  

RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

Wait, I have a question about...?  

If you have any questions about the course, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

GEMS Advanced

GEMS provides EMS practitioners at all levels with the skills and knowledge to address the unique medical, social, environmental and communications challenges of older adults. Developed by NAEMT, in partnership with the American Geriatrics Society, GEMS empowers EMS practitioners to help improve medical outcomes and quality of life for geriatric patients. 

 GEMS features case-based lectures, live action video, hands-on skill stations, simulation and small group scenarios to fully engage students in the learning experience.  

 What does this course teach? 

  • Changes with age 
  • Assessment of older adults 
  • Pharmacology and medication toxicity 
  • Psycho-social emergencies 
  • Elder abuse 
  • End-of-life care issues 
  • Cardiovascular and respiratory emergencies 
  • Trauma 
  • Neurological emergencies and altered mental status 
  • Mobile integrated healthcare 
  • Special considerations for older adults in disaster response 
  • Skin and wound care 
  • Medical devices frequently used by older adults 

 Precourse Work 

  • Review the textbook. 

What do I need to do before attending this course?   

  • Review the course textbook, if applicable.  Textbooks are available in the Harrel Library.  Textbooks can also be purchased online from a variety of sellers.  For any questions, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   
  • Complete any precourse work, if applicable.   

 What do I bring with me?  

  • Course textbooks, if applicable.   
  • Copy of your current provider card, if applicable.  Note that some courses require we document proof of current certification status.   

  How much does the course cost?  

  • If you are a PSH MSHMC employee or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  
    • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course. 
    • Failure to show. 
    • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion. 
  • If you are a PSH employee, your department will be charged for this course via inter-department transfer.  
  • If you are not a PSH employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course.   

 How do I cancel?   

  • If you cannot attend, you must withdraw from this course as soon as possible. If PSH employee or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass.  If external, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

 Where’s my card?  

  • RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

 Wait, I have a question about...?  

Hands Only CPR

Hands-Only CPR is CPR without mouth-to-mouth breaths. It is recommended for use by people who see a teen or adult suddenly collapse in an “out-of-hospital” setting (such as at home, at work or in a park). It consists of two easy steps:

  1. Call 9-1-1 (or send someone to do that).
  2. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest.

When you call 911, you need to stay on the phone until the 911 dispatcher (operator) tells you to hang up. The dispatcher will ask you about the emergency. They will also ask for details like your location. It is important to be specific, especially if you’re calling from a mobile phone as that is not associated with a fixed location or address. Remember that answering the dispatcher’s questions will not delay the arrival of help.

What do I need to do before attending this course?   

  • Complete any precourse work, if applicable.   

 What do I bring with me?  

  • You must print certificate of completions of the pre-course work, if applicable. FAILURE TO BRING YOUR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION WILL RESULT IN YOUR EXPULSION FROM THE COURSE.    
  • Course textbooks, if applicable.   
  • Copy of your current provider card, if applicable.  Note that some courses require we document proof of current certification status.   

 What should I wear to a live class?  

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems. 

 How much does the course cost?  

  • If you are a PSH employee or a PSU COM employee/student, you may be charged in the following scenarios:  
    • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course. 
    • Failure to show. 
    • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion. 

How do I cancel?   

  • If you cannot attend, you must withdraw from this course as soon as possible. If PSH employee or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass.  If external, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.     

Wait, I have a question about...?  

Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED

The AHA Heartsaver First AId CPR AED Course is designed for anyone with limited or no medical training who needs a course completion card in CPR and AED use to meet job, regulatory, or other requirements. Topics include:

  • Describe how high-quality CPR improves survival 
  • Explain the concepts of the Chain of Survival 
  • Recognize when someone needs CPR 
  • Perform high-quality CPR for an adult 
  • Describe how to perform CPR with help from others 
  • Give effective breaths using mouth-to-mouth or a mask for all age groups 
  • Demonstrate how to use an AED on an adult 
  • Perform high-quality CPR for a child* 
  • Demonstrate how to use an AED on a child* 
  • Perform high-quality CPR for an infant* 
  • Describe when and how to help a choking adult or child 
  • Demonstrate how to help a choking infant* 
  • Basic First Aid

What should I wear to a live class?  

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems. 

 How much does the course cost?  

If you are a PSH or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  

  • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course. 
  • Failure to show. 
  • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion.  

If you are not a PSH or PSU COM student/employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course.   

 How do I cancel?   

If you cannot attend, you must withdraw from this course as soon as possible. If PSH employee or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass.  If external, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

Where’s my card?  

RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

 Wait, I have a question about...?  

If you have any questions about the course, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid CPR AED eLearning - Hands-On Session

Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED Online is the eLearning portion of the Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED blended learning course and is designed to teach students the cognitive information needed for First Aid, CPR, and AED training. Upon completion of the online portion, students must complete hands-on skills session with an AHA BLS or Heartsaver Instructor.

Prerequisites/What to Bring to Class

  • After you register for a skills testing session, you must email RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu to request access to the eLearning. Should you be approved for this course, you'll receive access to an eLearning via email. You must print the certificate of completion and bring it with you to the skills testing session. Should you open and activate the eLearning, and fail to complete the eLearning, you will be charged for the course. 

Who Should Take This Course Anyone with little or no medical training who needs a course completion card for job, regulatory (e.g., OSHA), or other requirements. These courses can also be taken by anyone who wants to be prepared for an emergency in any setting.

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center Policy: Those required to have HeartSaver are governed by 206NAM, 146-MGM, and PC-06 HAM. 

What Should I Wear? Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems. 

What about my card? You will receive an e-mail within 72 hours after your course to claim your eCard if you successfully completed the course.  ​

I Need to Cancel If you can not attend, you must withdraw from this course as soon as possible. You may be charged for your cancellation. You can cancel your reservation by withdrawing in Compass. 

I Have Another Question If you have any questions about the course, please call the RSTC at 717-531-1834 or email at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu. 

PALS HeartCode/Skills

We recommend HeartCode as an alternative to the more traditional "update/renewal".  Note the online program/test for HeartCode takes approximately 3 hours.  

HeartCode PALS is a comprehensive program that uses a series of videos and simulated pediatric emergencies to reinforce the important concepts of a systematic approach to pediatric assessment, basic life support, PALS treatment algorithms, effective resuscitation, and team dynamics.  

What do I need to do before class?  What do I bring with me to class? 

  • Complete the PALS HeartCode online program/test.  Request the PALS HeartCode online program/test by contacting RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834. FAILURE TO BRING YOUR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION WILL RESULT IN YOUR EXPULSION FROM THE COURSE. 
  •  Review the course textbook, which can be accessed via the HeartCode program/test. Textbooks are available in the Harrel Library and can be purchased online from a variety of sellers if you wish to have a hardcopy. 

 What should I wear to a live class?  

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems. 

 How much does the course cost?  

If you are a PSH or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  

  • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course. 
  • Failure to show. 
  • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion. 

If you are not a PSH or PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged the full amount for this course.   

 How do I cancel?   

  • If PSH or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass. 
  • If not PSH or PSU COM employee/student, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

 Where’s my card?  

RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

 Wait, I have a question about...?  

If you have any questions about the course, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

PALS Provider

The goal of the PALS Provider Course is to improve the quality of care provided to seriously ill or injured children, resulting in improved outcomes. Throughout the course, students are presented with 12 In-hospital pediatric patient cases and a team dynamics lesson. Upon successful completion of all the patient cases, students must pass the multiple-choice exam with a minimum score of 84%. For healthcare providers who respond to emergencies in infants and children and for personnel in emergency response, emergency medicine, intensive care and critical care units. This course is designed for a first time student and takes 1.5 days to complete.  Topics include: 

  • High-quality Child CPR AED and Infant CPR 
  • Recognition of patients who do and do not require immediate intervention 
  • Recognition of cardiopulmonary arrest early and application of CPR within 10 seconds 
  • Apply team dynamics 
  • Differentiation between respiratory distress and failure 
  • Early interventions for respiratory distress and failure 
  • Differentiation between compensated and decompensated (hypotensive) shock 
  • Early interventions for the treatment of shock 
  • Differentiation between unstable and stable patients with arrhythmias 
  • Clinical characteristics of instability in patients with arrhythmias 
  • Post–cardiac arrest management 

What do I need to do before class?  What do I bring with me to class?  

  • Go to elearning.heart.org.
  • type in the search bar on the upper right APSL Precourse
  • Scroll down to the "PALS PRECOURSE SELF ASSESSMENT AND PRECOURSE WORK" modules and select "Launch this course".
  • When complete, it will say your name "...has completed the video lessons and pre-course self assessment".
  • Following completion you must select "Survey" and complete the survey. 
  • Then select "Certificate" and print it. FAILURE TO BRING YOUR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION WILL RESULT IN YOUR EXPULSION FROM THE COURSE.
  • Problems with your pre-course work?   Call AHA at 1-888-242-8883 M-F 8-5 CST
  • Review the course textbook. Textbooks are available in the Harrel Library and can be purchased online from a variety of sellers. The textbook can be used for the written test.

What should I wear to a live class?  

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems. 

How much does the course cost? 

If you are not a PSH employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course. 

If you are a PSH or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  

  • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course.
  • Failure to show.
  • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion.  

How do I cancel?   

If PSH or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass. 

If not PSH or PSU COM employee/student, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

Where’s my card?  

RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

Wait, I have a question about...?  

If you have any questions about the course, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

PALS Update/Renewal

As an alternative to this update/renewal course, consider HeartCode.  HeartCode allows you to test your knowledge online - at your own pace - and then come to the Sim Center for a live, skills check. 

The goal of the PALS Update Course is to improve the quality of care provided to seriously ill or injured children, resulting in improved outcomes. Throughout the course, students are presented with 12 In-hospital pediatric patient cases and a team dynamics lesson. Upon successful completion of all the patient cases, students must pass the multiple-choice exam with a minimum score of 84%. For healthcare providers who respond to emergencies in infants and children and for personnel in emergency response, emergency medicine, intensive care and critical care units. This course is designed for a first time student and takes 1.5 days to complete.  Topics include: 

  • High-quality Child CPR AED and Infant CPR 
  • Recognition of patients who do and do not require immediate intervention 
  • Recognition of cardiopulmonary arrest early and application of CPR within 10 seconds 
  • Apply team dynamics 
  • Differentiation between respiratory distress and failure 
  • Early interventions for respiratory distress and failure 
  • Differentiation between compensated and decompensated (hypotensive) shock 
  • Early interventions for the treatment of shock 
  • Differentiation between unstable and stable patients with arrhythmias 
  • Clinical characteristics of instability in patients with arrhythmias 
  • Post–cardiac arrest management 

What do I need to do before class?  What do I bring with me to class?  

  • Go to elearning.heart.org.
  • type in the search bar on the upper right PALS Precourse
  • Scroll down to the "PALS PRECOURSE SELF ASSESSMENT AND PRECOURSE WORK" modules and select "Launch this course".
  • When complete, it will say your name "...has completed the video lessons and pre-course self assessment".
  • Following completion you must select "Survey" and complete the survey. 
  • Then select "Certificate" and print it. FAILURE TO BRING YOUR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION WILL RESULT IN YOUR EXPULSION FROM THE COURSE.
  • Problems with your pre-course work?   Call AHA at 1-888-242-8883 M-F 8-5 CST
  • Review the course textbook. Textbooks are available in the Harrel Library and can be purchased online from a variety of sellers. The textbook can be used for the written test.

What should I wear to a live class?  

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems. 

How much does the course cost? 

If you are not a PSH employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course. 

If you are a PSH or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  

  • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course.
  • Failure to show.
  • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion.  

How do I cancel?   

  • If PSH or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass. 
  • If not PSH or PSU COM employee/student, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

Where’s my card?  

RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

Wait, I have a question about...?  

If you have any questions about the course, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

PHTLS Skills

NAEMT's Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) is recognized around the world as the leading continuing education program for prehospital emergency trauma care. The mission of PHTLS is to promote excellence in trauma patient management by all providers involved in the delivery of prehospital care.  PHTLS is developed by NAEMT in cooperation with the American College of Surgeons' Committee on Trauma. The Committee provides the medical direction and content oversight for the PHTLS program.  

 PHTLS courses improve the quality of trauma care and decrease mortality. The program is based on a philosophy stressing the treatment of the multi-system trauma patient as a unique entity with specific needs. PHTLS promotes critical thinking as the foundation for providing quality care. It is based on the belief that, given a good fund of knowledge and key principles, EMS practitioners are capable of making reasoned decisions regarding patient care.  

What does this course teach? 

  • Physiology of life and death 
  • Scene assessment 
  • Patient assessment 
  • Airway 
  • Breathing, ventilation and oxygenation 
  • Circulation, hemorrhage and shock 
  • Patients with disabilities 
  • Patient simulations 

Precourse Work 

  • Complete the PHTLS online program by contacting RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834 and requesting the online program.  

What do I need to do before attending this course?   

  • Review the course textbook, if applicable.  Textbooks are available in the Harrel Library.  Textbooks can also be purchased online from a variety of sellers.  For any questions, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   
  • Complete any precourse work, if applicable.   

 What do I bring with me?  

  • You must print certificate of completion of the pre-course work, if applicable. FAILURE TO BRING YOUR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION WILL RESULT IN YOUR EXPULSION FROM THE COURSE.    
  • Course textbooks, if applicable.   
  • Copy of your current provider card, if applicable.  Note that some courses require we document proof of current certification status.   

 What should I wear to a live class?  

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will be practicing skills that require work on your hands and knees, and the course requires bending, standing, and lifting. If you have any physical condition that might prevent you from engaging in these activities, please tell an instructor. The instructor may be able to adjust the equipment if you have back, knee, or hip problems. 

 How much does the course cost?  

  • If you are a PSH MSHMC employee or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  
    • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course. 
    • Failure to show. 
    • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion. 
  • If you are a PSH employee, your department will be charged for this course via inter-department transfer.  
  • If you are not a PSH employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course.   

 How do I cancel?   

  • If you cannot attend, you must withdraw from this course as soon as possible. If PSH employee or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass.  If external, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

 Where’s my card?  

  • RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

 Wait, I have a question about...?  

PTEP VIRTUAL

NAEMT's Psychological Trauma in EMS Patients (PTEP) course gives EMS practitioners the resources they need to help alleviate patients’ hidden wounds – intense fear, stress and pain – during a medical emergency. 

PTEP educates EMS practitioners about the biological underpinnings of psychological trauma, the short and long-term impact on the brain and body, and warning signs that a patient is experiencing extreme psychological distress. EMS practitioners are also taught strategies and techniques to alleviate patients’ distress and help patients cope with what they’re experiencing to ward off lingering effects. 

The 8-hour classroom course features scenario-based interactive sessions and lectures.  

What does this course teach? 

  • The invisible wounds of psychological trauma 
  • Reducing psychological traumatic stress 
  • Understanding the physiological stress response 
  • Applying the eSCAPe principle to patient care 
  • Patient simulations 
  • Recognizing psychological trauma within EMS 

Precourse Work 

  • Review the textbook. 

 What do I need to do before attending this course?   

  • Review the course textbook, if applicable.  Textbooks are available in the Harrel Library.  Textbooks can also be purchased online from a variety of sellers.  For any questions, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   
  • Complete any precourse work, if applicable.   

 What do I bring with me?  

  • You must print certificate of completions of the pre-course work, if applicable. FAILURE TO BRING YOUR CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION WILL RESULT IN YOUR EXPULSION FROM THE COURSE.    
  • Course textbooks, if applicable.   
  • Copy of your current provider card, if applicable.  Note that some courses require we document proof of current certification status.   

How much does the course cost?  

  • If you are a PSH MSHMC employee or a PSU COM employee/student, you will be charged in the following scenarios:  
    • Withdrawal and cancellation received within 24 hours of the course. 
    • Failure to show. 
    • If you received an online course, started the online course, but failed to complete the online course or show for the classroom portion. 
  • If you are a PSH employee, your department will be charged for this course via inter-department transfer.  
  • If you are not a PSH employee, you will be charged the full amount for this course.   

 How do I cancel?   

  • If you cannot attend, you must withdraw from this course as soon as possible. If PSH employee or PSU COM employee/student, withdraw on Compass.  If external, contact RSTC at RSTC@pennstatehealth.psu.edu or 717-531-1834.   

 Where’s my card?  

  • RSTC attempts to process all courses within 5 days, excluding holidays and weekends.   

 Wait, I have a question about...?  

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Contact Us

PSH MSHMC RSTC
Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center Resuscitation Sciences Training Center
 500 University Drive
Hershey, PA 17033

phone 717-531-1834

INSTRUCTORS:  Click here for equipment rental form. 

Penn State Health - Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (including Academic Practice Division)

American Academy of Family Physicians - Lori Double

American Academy of Pediatrics - Julie Becker

American College of Surgeons - Lori Double

American Heart Association - Lori Double

Emergency Nurses Association - Tammy Ophardt

National Association of EMTs - Franklin Banfer

Resuscitation Quality Improvement - Lori Double

Penn State Health - St. Joseph

American Academy of Pediatrics - Tiffany Jackson

American Heart Association - Jennifer Schemberg

Resuscitation Quality Improvement - Jennifer Schemberg

Penn State Health - Holy Spirit

American Academy of Pediatrics - Beth Johnson

American Heart Association - Christy Liddington

Emergency Nurses Association - Esther Polson

Penn State Health - Community Medical Group

American Heart Association - Harrisburg Area - Tammy Matter/Kristin Kissell 

American Heart Association - Lancaster Area - Beth Russell 

American Heart Association - York Area - Beth Russell

American Heart Association - Reading Area - Lucinda Hinsey