NSC First Aid and CPR 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When performing CPR on an adult, what is the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio?
- 15:2
- 30:2 (Correct answer)
- 5:1
- 10:2
Correct answer: 30:2
The American Heart Association and NSC recommend a 30:2 compression-to-ventilation ratio for adult CPR.
Question 2: A victim is choking and can still cough forcefully. What is the appropriate first response?
- Perform abdominal thrusts immediately
- Encourage the victim to keep coughing (Correct answer)
- Begin back blows
- Call 9-1-1 and wait
Correct answer: Encourage the victim to keep coughing
If a choking victim can cough forcefully, encourage them to continue coughing, as it is the most effective way to dislodge the object.
Question 3: What is the correct hand position for chest compressions on an adult?
- On the upper third of the sternum
- On the lower half of the sternum (Correct answer)
- Directly over the heart on the left chest
- Two finger-widths above the xiphoid process
Correct answer: On the lower half of the sternum
Compressions should be delivered on the lower half of the sternum to maximize cardiac output and avoid injury.
Question 4: How should you position an unresponsive breathing adult who is not suspected of having a spinal injury?
- Flat on their back
- In the recovery position on their side (Correct answer)
- Seated upright
- Prone face-down
Correct answer: In the recovery position on their side
The recovery position keeps the airway open and reduces the risk of choking on vomit in an unresponsive but breathing victim.
Question 5: An AED delivers a shock and the victim remains unresponsive. What should you do next?
- Wait 2 minutes before checking again
- Immediately resume CPR starting with compressions (Correct answer)
- Administer another shock right away
- Check for a pulse for 30 seconds
Correct answer: Immediately resume CPR starting with compressions
After a shock is delivered, CPR should resume immediately starting with chest compressions without pausing to check for a pulse.
Question 6: Which condition requires immediate use of an epinephrine auto-injector?
- Mild allergic rash
- Severe anaphylaxis with throat swelling (Correct answer)
- Asthma attack
- Fainting episode
Correct answer: Severe anaphylaxis with throat swelling
Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction involving airway compromise.
Question 7: When treating a victim for shock, which position is generally recommended if no spinal injury is suspected?
- Sitting upright at 90 degrees
- Legs elevated about 12 inches, lying flat (Correct answer)
- Head elevated on pillows
- Rolled to the left side
Correct answer: Legs elevated about 12 inches, lying flat
Elevating the legs about 12 inches helps return blood flow to vital organs unless the victim has a head, neck, spine, or leg injury.
When performing CPR on an adult, what is the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio?