ACLS Pulseless 5

Question 1

A patient in refractory VF is suspected to have hypomagnesemia. Which drug and dose is recommended?

Accepted Answer

Magnesium sulfate 1–2 g IV over 5–20 minutes

Answer

Magnesium sulfate 1–2 g IV is indicated for torsades de pointes (polymorphic VT) and suspected hypomagnesemia-related VF.

Question 2

How is the adequacy of CPR best monitored in an intubated patient during cardiac arrest?

Accepted Answer

Continuous waveform capnography (PETCO2)

Answer

Continuous waveform capnography provides real-time feedback on CPR quality; rising PETCO2 toward ≥10–20 mmHg indicates improving perfusion.

Question 3

A patient with cardiac tamponade goes into pulseless electrical activity. What is the definitive treatment?

Accepted Answer

Emergency pericardiocentesis

Answer

Emergency pericardiocentesis relieves the tamponade and is the definitive treatment for PEA caused by cardiac tamponade.

Question 4

Which finding would most strongly suggest that ongoing resuscitation efforts should be terminated?

Accepted Answer

No ROSC after 20+ minutes of ACLS with all reversible causes addressed

Answer

Failure to achieve ROSC after prolonged ACLS with no reversible causes identified is a reasonable basis for considering termination of resuscitation.

Question 5

What is the correct ventilation rate during CPR for an adult patient with an advanced airway in place?

Accepted Answer

1 breath every 6 seconds (10/min)

Answer

Once an advanced airway is placed, deliver 1 breath every 6 seconds (10 breaths/min) without interrupting continuous chest compressions.

ACLS Practice Test