BLS and High-Quality CPR Flashcards

Which scenario represents an appropriate reason to briefly pause chest compressions?

Answer: To deliver a shock from a defibrillator

Compressions should be paused only for rhythm analysis and defibrillation; all other interventions should occur without stopping compressions.

A patient is found unresponsive. A bystander says the patient collapsed 3 minutes ago. You have an AED available. What should you do?

Answer: Attach the AED and follow its prompts immediately

Early defibrillation is critical for shockable rhythms; attach the AED and use it as quickly as possible while CPR continues.

Which of the following is considered a component of high-quality CPR according to the AHA?

Answer: Avoiding excessive ventilation

Avoiding excessive ventilation (which can increase intrathoracic pressure and reduce cardiac output) is a core principle of high-quality CPR.

For a child (1 year to puberty) in cardiac arrest with two rescuers, what is the recommended compression-to-ventilation ratio?

Answer: 15:2

Two-rescuer pediatric CPR uses a 15:2 ratio to account for children's higher respiratory needs relative to adults.

A victim of drowning is unresponsive and apneic. Which modification to standard CPR sequence is recommended for this patient?

Answer: Begin with 2–5 rescue breaths before starting compressions

Drowning victims have an asphyxial arrest, so providing rescue breaths first addresses the underlying hypoxia before compressions.

What is the chest compression fraction (CCF) target recommended during resuscitation?

Answer: Greater than 80%

A CCF of greater than 80% (ideally >80–90%) maximizes perfusion during resuscitation and is associated with improved outcomes.

A rescuer is performing CPR and the patient's ribs crack during compressions. What is the correct action?

Answer: Continue compressions at the same depth and rate

Rib fractures are a known complication of CPR; compressions must continue at full depth because the priority is restoring circulation.