FREE CPR Assessment & Recognition of Cardiac Arrest Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the first sign you should look for when assessing a person for cardiac arrest?

Accepted Answer

Unresponsiveness

Answer

The first sign to look for when assessing for cardiac arrest is unresponsiveness. If a person does not respond to verbal commands or gentle tapping, it indicates a severe medical emergency. This initial assessment guides the rescuer to then check for breathing and pulse, leading to the decision to activate emergency services and begin CPR.

Question 2

How long should you check for breathing before starting CPR?

Accepted Answer

10 seconds

Answer

Current CPR guidelines recommend checking for breathing for no more than 10 seconds. This brief assessment allows the rescuer to quickly determine if the victim is breathing normally or not. Prolonged checking delays the initiation of chest compressions, which are critical for maintaining blood flow to vital organs.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes agonal breathing?

Accepted Answer

Gasping, irregular breaths

Answer

Agonal breathing is characterized by gasping, irregular, and often noisy breaths that are not effective for oxygenation. It is a common sign of cardiac arrest and should not be mistaken for normal breathing. Recognizing agonal breathing as ineffective respiration is crucial for promptly initiating CPR.

Question 4

You find an adult who is unresponsive and not breathing normally. What is your next step?

Accepted Answer

Call 911 and begin CPR

Answer

If an adult is unresponsive and not breathing normally (or only exhibiting agonal breaths), it is a clear indication of cardiac arrest. The immediate next steps are to activate the emergency medical system (call 911 or local emergency number) and then promptly begin high-quality chest compressions (CPR). Early activation and immediate CPR significantly improve survival rates.

Question 5

What is the correct way to assess responsiveness?

Accepted Answer

Shake them and shout

Answer

Assessing responsiveness is the crucial first step in any emergency situation. Shaking the person gently and shouting loudly (e.g., "Are you okay?") helps determine if they are conscious or unconscious. This immediate action guides whether further emergency steps, such as calling for help or initiating CPR, are necessary.

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) Practice Test

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) Practice Test

FREE CPR Assessment & Recognition of Cardiac Arrest Questions and Answers