Improving Trauma Care Worldwide

Frequently Asked Questions for Students

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FAQs for Instructors
FAQs for Coordinators

Who can take the ITLS course?

The Advanced Provider course material requires the ability to start intravenous fluids and to perform advanced airway management. Advanced airway management is defined as the use of a blind insertion airway device, or endotracheal tube. This limits the full course to advanced EMTs, paramedics, medical students, registered nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and physicians.

The Basic Provider course is for EMS personnel who cannot perform advanced procedures (basic EMTs, first responders, and licensed practical nurses). ITLS does not advocate or condone teaching students to perform skills outside their scope of practice.

The CMS Course Finder is showing no upcoming courses that meet my needs. How can I find a course?

If the CMS Course Finder tool is showing inadequate results, ITLS always recommends contacting your local Chapter or Training Centre for assistance. The Chapter or Training Centre Coordinator may be aware of upcoming programs that are not yet entered into the CMS, or may be able to put you in touch with a local or regional coordinator to help you find a course that meets your needs. Additionally, some international Chapters and Training Centres cannot use CMS due to privacy laws but would be happy to provide details about their course offerings by email, phone, or through their website.
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Where can I get the ITLS Pre-Test in advance of my course?

The course coordinator should provide you with the Advanced or Basic Pre-Test and Answer Key upon registration for the course. ITLS encourages students to take the Pre-Test and use the Answer Key to identify weaknesses so they can study more effectively in advance of the course. Contact the course coordinator if you have not received the ITLS Pre-Test for your course.

What are the pass/fail criteria?

Students must attend the lectures and skill stations and obtain at least 74% on the Written Exam and at least “Adequate” on the Practical Exam.

What is the retesting policy if I fail the Written or Practical Exam?

Students who fail only the patient assessment skills test will usually be retested on the same day (time permitting) or given the opportunity to retest within 6 weeks. It is strongly recommended that there be two evaluators for a patient assessment retest. If possible, the evaluator who initially rated the student as “inadequate” should not conduct the retest. Students may not retest in order to raise a passing grade.

Students who fail only the written test usually may not retake it immediately but will be given an opportunity to retest after having had time to review the material and study identified areas of weakness. The retest will be scheduled within 6 weeks. Students who pass the retest will pass the course. Students who fail the retest may be provided an opportunity to retake the course at no charge or for a reduced charge. Students may not retest in order to raise a passing grade.

Students who fail both the written and the patient assessment test will be asked to repeat the course.

When can I expect to receive my card?

Students should receive ITLS cards as expeditiously as possible. Chapters and Training Centres work to ensure that students receive cards within 30 days of course completion when all fees have been paid.

What should I do if I have not received my card in a timely manner?

If you have not received your card within 6 weeks of the course completion date, please contact the Chapter or Training Centre in which you took the course. The Chapter or Training Centre Coordinator is responsible for the issuance of all cards in their program and has access to all of the course records in order to provide updated information on when you can expect your card.
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How do I obtain a duplicate copy of my ITLS card?

Please contact the Chapter or Training Centre in which you took the course to request a duplicate or reprint of your card. The Chapter or Training Centre Coordinator is responsible for the issuance of all cards in their program and has access to all of the course records in order to provide a duplicate copy.
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I contacted my local Chapter or Training Centre for assistance but I have not received a response. What can I do?

If you have not received a response from your local Chapter or Training Centre Coordinator within a reasonable amount of time, please contact ITLS International for assistance. Staff can contact the Chapter or Training Centre on your behalf.
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