This is the more advanced skill set used in resuscitating cardiac arrest patients. This set starts with Basic Life Support, and extends it with invasive techniques such as intubation, specialized drugs, IV access and more sophisticated diagnostic techniques. This skill set is practiced out of the hospital by Paramedics and flight nurses, and in the hospital by most critical care personnel. It is also referred to as ALS and ACLS.

The treatment provided by paramedics to patients in cardiopulmonary arrest, including providing basic life support, patient monitoring, arrhythmia interpretation, defibrillation, intubation, and administration of intravenous drugs. ACLS is the fourth link in the Cardiac Chain of Survival.

(ACLS) An educational course for advanced healthcare providers in which they are taught how to manage cardiac arrest victims in a hospital setting. Teaching includes; advanced airway management skills, cardiac drug usage, defibrillation and arrhythmia interpretation.