BLS Chain of Survival 5

Question 1

Which factor has the GREATEST impact on survival when the first two links of the Chain of Survival (recognition/activation and early CPR) are already in place?

Accepted Answer

Time to defibrillation

Answer

When CPR is underway, time to defibrillation becomes the dominant determinant of survival for shockable rhythms.

Question 2

A cardiac arrest victim has ventricular fibrillation (VF). CPR is in progress. The AED analyzes and advises 'No shock recommended.' What should the rescuer do?

Accepted Answer

Immediately resume CPR and recheck every 2 minutes

Answer

A 'no shock' advisory means the rhythm is non-shockable; CPR must continue to maintain perfusion and rhythms are reassessed every 2-minute cycle.

Question 3

Which statement best explains why CPR alone rarely restores a normal heart rhythm in ventricular fibrillation?

Accepted Answer

CPR maintains perfusion but cannot terminate the chaotic electrical activity of VF — only defibrillation can

Answer

CPR sustains blood flow to the heart and brain but cannot reorganize the disorganized electrical signals of VF; a defibrillatory shock is required.

Question 4

A hospital implements a rapid response team (RRT) to evaluate deteriorating patients before cardiac arrest. Which Chain of Survival link does this MOST directly support?

Accepted Answer

Surveillance and prevention (in-hospital first link)

Answer

RRTs are a surveillance and prevention strategy unique to the in-hospital chain, intervening before arrest occurs.

Question 5

Which of the following BEST explains why the Chain of Survival is called a 'chain' and not a 'checklist'?

Accepted Answer

Each link depends on the previous one, and a break in any link weakens the entire system

Answer

Like a physical chain, the system is only as strong as its weakest link — delays or failures at any step reduce the chance of survival.

BLS - Basic Life Support Practice Test

BLS - Basic Life Support Practice Test

BLS Chain of Survival 5