UZ Brussel takes a step towards becoming a European-accredited training centre with the successful launch of ALS training programmes.

On 16 and 17 December 2024, UZ Brussel hosted its very first Advanced Life Support (ALS) training accredited by the European Resuscitation Council (ERC). This milestone marks the starting point for the establishment of a European-accredited training centre within the Department of Critical Care. With a multidisciplinary faculty and 12 enthusiastic participants, the foundation was laid for an ambitious training programme that is set to expand significantly in the near future.

The Departments of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, and Emergency Medicine have joined forces to offer these internationally recognised courses. Dr. Lieselot Blomme, a driving force behind this initiative within the Emergency Department, plays a pivotal role in its coordination and organisation. Her dedication and expertise ensure that UZ Brussel not only meets the highest quality standards but also takes a progressive approach to strengthening acute care. The project is further supported by Thomas Creten, who plays a key role in developing the training centre.

ALS training as a cornerstone for a comprehensive education programme

The ERC-certified ALS training is a crucial step in the professionalisation of resuscitation care. The programme prepares healthcare professionals to respond in a structured and efficient manner to patients with life-threatening cardiorespiratory conditions. However, this is only the beginning: the Department of Critical Care has set its sights on expanding its training offerings in the short term. In addition to ALS training, the future training centre aims to develop other advanced programmes tailored to the needs of critical care services.

Follow-up training planned for 2025

Given the success of the inaugural session, new ALS training dates have already been scheduled for 2025:

• 4 & 5 June 2025
• 10 & 11 September 2025

Registrations for these sessions can be made via the ERC website: cosy.erc.edu/nl/sessions/calendar.

With this initiative, UZ Brussel underscores its ambition to become a leading training centre focused on improving acute care delivery and patient safety. For more information or questions, please contact Dr. Lieselot Blomme, the key contact and driving force behind this project within the Emergency Department.