American Heart Association PALS Courses: Advanced Pediatric Emergency Training The American Heart Association (AHA) Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) course is a comprehensive training program designed for healthcare professionals who respond to pediatric emergencies. Tailored specifically for the unique needs of infants and children, the PALS course builds on the foundation of Basic Life Support (BLS) and emphasizes the advanced skills required to manage seriously ill pediatric patients in both prehospital and hospital settings.