Free ACLS Basics Question and Answers

Question 1

After using an AED to shock someone, you should:

Accepted Answer

Start CPR, beginning with chest compressions

Answer

After delivering a shock with an automated external defibrillator (AED), the immediate next step is to resume chest compressions without delay. This is because even if the shock successfully terminates the lethal rhythm, the heart may still be stunned and require circulatory support. Interrupting compressions to check a pulse or reanalyze wastes critical time and reduces perfusion.

Question 2

The compression-to-ventilation ratio during CPR when there is no advanced airway in place is:

Accepted Answer

30:2

Answer

For adult CPR without an advanced airway, the recommended compression-to-ventilation ratio is 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths. This ratio applies to both single rescuer and two-rescuer CPR. This standard ensures adequate blood flow to vital organs while minimizing interruptions for ventilations.

Question 3

Which of the following statements about CPR once an advanced airway has been established is true:

Accepted Answer

One breath every 6 seconds should be given

Answer

Once an advanced airway (like an ET tube or LMA) is in place, chest compressions should be continuous without pauses for ventilations. Breaths are given asynchronously at a rate of one breath every 6 seconds, which translates to approximately 10 breaths per minute. This allows for uninterrupted chest compressions, maximizing coronary and cerebral perfusion.

Question 4

Suctioning attempts in ACLS scenarios should typically be:

Accepted Answer

ten seconds or less

Answer

Suctioning removes oxygen from the airway, potentially leading to hypoxemia and bradycardia. Therefore, suctioning attempts should be brief, typically limited to 10 seconds or less for adults. This minimizes interruptions to ventilation and oxygenation, which are critical during resuscitation.

Question 5

Rescue breaths should be given at a rate of one breath every __ seconds to patients who are having respiratory arrest with a perfusing rhythm.

Accepted Answer

6 seconds

Answer

For an adult patient in respiratory arrest with a pulse, rescue breaths should be delivered at a rate of one breath every 6 seconds. This translates to approximately 10 breaths per minute. This rate provides adequate ventilation without causing hyperventilation, which can lead to complications like gastric inflation and decreased cardiac output.

ACLS Practice Test

ACLS Practice Test

Free ACLS Basics Question and Answers