First Aid & Basic Life Support Flashcards

How deep should chest compressions be on an average adult during CPR?

Answer: At least 2 inches but not more than 2.4 inches

AHA recommends adult compressions of at least 2 inches (5 cm) without exceeding 2.4 inches (6 cm).

Where are AED pads typically placed on an adult in the standard anterolateral position?

Answer: One below the right collarbone and one on the left side below the armpit

Anterolateral placement positions the heart between the upper-right chest pad and the lower-left side pad.

An unresponsive person is taking occasional gasping breaths and has no pulse. How should these gasps be interpreted?

Answer: As agonal breathing, so CPR should begin

Agonal gasps are not effective breathing and indicate cardiac arrest requiring CPR.

A firefighter has a deep thigh wound bleeding heavily and a tourniquet is not available. What should be done?

Answer: Pack the wound with gauze and apply firm direct pressure

Wound packing with firm, continuous direct pressure is an effective method for controlling severe bleeding.

Which signs are most consistent with heat exhaustion rather than heat stroke?

Answer: Heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and normal mental status

Heat exhaustion causes sweating, fatigue, and nausea while mental status remains normal.

What is the correct way to manage a responsive adult who is choking and cannot speak or cough?

Answer: Perform abdominal thrusts until the object is expelled or the person becomes unresponsive

Abdominal thrusts are recommended for a responsive adult with a severe airway obstruction; blind finger sweeps can push the object deeper.

A crew member gets a dry chemical powder in contact with skin on the forearm. What should be done before flushing with water?

Answer: Brush off as much dry powder as possible

Dry chemicals should be brushed off first because some react with water, then the area is flushed thoroughly.