High-Quality Pediatric BLS Flashcards

A 4-year-old is in cardiac arrest. An AED arrives. After delivering a shock, what is the IMMEDIATE next step?

Answer: Resume CPR immediately starting with chest compressions

After AED shock delivery, immediately resume CPR starting with chest compressions without pausing for a pulse check.

During pediatric BLS, how long should you spend checking for a pulse before deciding to start CPR?

Answer: No more than 10 seconds

The pulse check should take no more than 10 seconds; if uncertain, begin CPR immediately.

For a child in cardiac arrest with an advanced airway in place, what is the recommended ventilation rate?

Answer: 1 breath every 3–5 seconds (12–20/min)

With an advanced airway, deliver 1 breath every 3–5 seconds (12–20 breaths/min) asynchronously with continuous compressions.

What is the MOST reliable indicator of effective chest compressions during pediatric CPR?

Answer: Capnography showing ETCO₂ ≥ 15 mmHg

End-tidal CO₂ (ETCO₂) ≥ 15 mmHg on capnography is the most reliable real-time indicator of effective CPR perfusion.

Which action causes the MOST significant interruption to chest compression fraction during pediatric resuscitation?

Answer: Prolonged rhythm analysis with the AED

Prolonged AED rhythm analysis causes the longest single pause in compressions and most significantly reduces CCF.

A lone rescuer finds a 7-year-old unresponsive with no breathing. The rescuer has a phone. What is the correct sequence?

Answer: Call 911 on speakerphone simultaneously while beginning CPR

A lone rescuer should activate EMS on speakerphone while simultaneously beginning CPR to minimize delay in both actions.

Hyperventilation during pediatric BLS is harmful primarily because it:

Answer: Raises intrathoracic pressure and reduces venous return and cardiac output

Excessive ventilation increases intrathoracic pressure, which impedes venous return and dramatically reduces cardiac output during CPR.