PALS High-Quality Pediatric BLS 3

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Resume CPR immediately starting with chest compressions

Answer

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

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

No more than 10 seconds

Answer

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

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Capnography showing ETCO₂ ≥ 15 mmHg

Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Prolonged rhythm analysis with the AED

Answer

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

PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support Practice Test