NPLQ Pool Safety and Lifeguard 5

Question 1

What is the PRIMARY function of a lifeguard rescue tube during a water rescue?

Accepted Answer

To provide buoyancy support to the victim while keeping the rescuer safe

Answer

The rescue tube provides buoyancy to support the victim's weight in the water and creates a barrier between the victim and the rescuer, reducing the risk of the victim grabbing and submerging the lifeguard.

Question 2

A pool patron who is a weak swimmer enters the deep end and begins showing signs of distress. They are treading water but calling for help. This is classified as:

Accepted Answer

A distressed swimmer situation

Answer

A distressed swimmer is still able to keep themselves at the surface and call for help but cannot continue without assistance, distinguishing them from an active drowning victim.

Question 3

Which type of spinal injury mechanism is MOST common in aquatic environments?

Accepted Answer

Compression fractures from impact (hyperflexion/hyperextension)

Answer

Head-first impacts with the pool floor or wall during diving cause compression, hyperflexion, or hyperextension fractures of the cervical spine.

Question 4

How should a lifeguard position themselves on a raised lifeguard stand to optimize surveillance?

Accepted Answer

Standing or sitting upright with eyes covering the full zone, including blind spots

Answer

An upright posture with full zone coverage, including awareness of blind spots and overlap areas, ensures maximum surveillance effectiveness.

Question 5

When approaching a pool to begin a shift, which pre-shift check is MOST safety-critical for a lifeguard?

Accepted Answer

Verifying all rescue equipment is present, accessible, and in working condition

Answer

Rescue equipment readiness is the highest safety-critical pre-shift check because unavailable equipment directly impacts rescue outcomes.

(NPLQ) National Pool Lifeguard Qualification Practice Test

(NPLQ) National Pool Lifeguard Qualification Practice Test

NPLQ Pool Safety and Lifeguard 5