Free BLS Recognition of Cardiac Arrest Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the first step in assessing a person who may be in cardiac arrest?

Accepted Answer

Check responsiveness by tapping and shouting

Answer

The first step in assessing a potentially unconscious person is to determine their responsiveness. Tapping and shouting helps ascertain if the person is merely sleeping or truly unresponsive, which guides subsequent assessment steps. This initial check is crucial before proceeding with checks for breathing and pulse, ensuring appropriate and timely intervention.

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT a reliable sign of cardiac arrest?

Accepted Answer

Normal pulse

Answer

Cardiac arrest is defined by the absence of a palpable pulse, indicating the heart is not effectively circulating blood. Therefore, a normal pulse signifies that the heart is still functioning, meaning the person is not in cardiac arrest. Unresponsiveness, abnormal or absent breathing, and no signs of movement are all reliable indicators of cardiac arrest.

Question 3

What is agonal breathing?

Accepted Answer

Gasping, irregular breaths during cardiac arrest

Answer

Agonal breathing refers to ineffective, gasping, or irregular breaths that can occur in the initial minutes of cardiac arrest. It is not normal breathing and indicates a severe medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. Recognizing agonal breathing as a sign of cardiac arrest is crucial for initiating timely BLS and improving patient outcomes.

Question 4

How long should you check for breathing and pulse simultaneously?

Accepted Answer

No more than 10 seconds

Answer

When checking for breathing and pulse, it is critical to do so quickly to minimize delays in initiating chest compressions if needed. The guideline of no more than 10 seconds ensures that if cardiac arrest is present, life-saving compressions are started promptly. Prolonged assessment delays vital interventions, significantly reducing the chances of survival.

Question 5

Which of the following indicates the start of BLS is necessary?

Accepted Answer

The person is gasping and unresponsive

Answer

Gasping (agonal breathing) combined with unresponsiveness are key indicators of cardiac arrest, signaling that the person's heart has stopped or is failing, and they are not breathing effectively. Immediate initiation of BLS, including chest compressions, is necessary in this critical situation. Recognizing these signs promptly is vital for patient survival.

BLS - Basic Life Support Practice Test

BLS - Basic Life Support Practice Test

Free BLS Recognition of Cardiac Arrest Questions and Answers