Mastering Basic Life Support (BLS) is essential for anyone in the healthcare profession or those who may need to respond to cardiac and respiratory emergencies. This Basic Life Support Exam is designed to help you strengthen your understanding of life-saving techniques, improve your response time, and ensure full readiness for certification or recertification.
Whether you are a nurse, EMT, paramedic, or a responsible bystander, this practice test will prepare you for real-world emergencies by reinforcing the core principles of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), use of automated external defibrillators (AED), and effective airway management.
What You’ll Learn from This Practice Exam
Our Basic Life Support Exam covers a comprehensive range of topics aligned with the most recent American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines. Each multiple-choice question is paired with a detailed explanation to deepen your knowledge and clarify common misconceptions.
Key areas covered include:
Adult, Child, and Infant CPR Techniques
Proper Use of an AED
Rescue Breathing and Airway Management
Team Dynamics During Resuscitation
Recognition of Cardiac Arrest and Emergency Response Activation
Choking Relief Procedures for All Age Groups
Realistic and Scenario-Based Questions
The questions in this practice test simulate real emergency situations, helping you apply textbook knowledge to hands-on scenarios. You’ll practice identifying unresponsive patients, determining pulse checks, choosing the correct compression-to-breath ratio, and understanding when and how to deliver shocks using an AED.
Each question is carefully crafted to match what you might see on the actual BLS certification exam or in real-life emergency response settings. This helps build confidence and practical skills that could one day save a life.
Why Choose This BLS Practice Exam?
Unlike generic online quizzes, this BLS test offers a rich learning experience with in-depth answer explanations that reinforce core concepts and reasoning. It’s ideal for:
Students in nursing or medical programs
Healthcare professionals renewing their certification
First responders and safety team members
Anyone preparing for an AHA, Red Cross, or equivalent BLS certification
Prepare with Confidence
Life-threatening emergencies can occur anytime, anywhere. Be ready to respond effectively by practicing with high-quality, up-to-date questions. Use this BLS Practice Exam to assess your knowledge, target weak areas, and become a more confident and capable responder.
BLS Exam Questions and Answers
What is the recommended rate for chest compressions during CPR for adults?
60–80 compressions per minute
B. 80–100 compressions per minute
C. 100–120 compressions per minute
D. 120–140 compressions per minute
Answer: C
Explanation: The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends performing chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute for adults during CPR to optimize blood flow to vital organs.
What is the correct depth of chest compressions for an adult during CPR?
About 1 inch
B. At least 2 inches
C. Approximately 3 inches
D. No more than 1.5 inches
Answer: B
Explanation: Chest compressions should be at least 2 inches (5 cm) deep to effectively pump blood through the body.
After each chest compression, you should:
Apply more pressure
B. Allow full chest recoil
C. Keep your hands in place and press harder
D. Stop and check the pulse
Answer: B
Explanation: Full chest recoil is critical because it allows the heart to refill with blood between compressions, which improves circulation.
What is the first thing you should do when you find an unresponsive adult?
Give two rescue breaths
B. Begin chest compressions
C. Call for help and check for breathing
D. Place the victim in a recovery position
Answer: C
Explanation: You must first check responsiveness and breathing. If the victim is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call for help and begin CPR.
What is the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio for a single rescuer performing CPR on an adult?
15:2
B. 20:2
C. 30:2
D. 5:1
Answer: C
Explanation: For adult victims, the recommended compression-to-ventilation ratio is 30:2 when one rescuer is available.
What is the first link in the adult Chain of Survival?
High-quality CPR
B. Advanced life support
C. Early defibrillation
D. Immediate recognition of cardiac arrest
Answer: D
Explanation: Immediate recognition of cardiac arrest and activation of the emergency response system is the first step in the Chain of Survival.
When should an AED be used?
As soon as it arrives
B. After five cycles of CPR
C. Only if the person is awake
D. Only after 2 minutes of chest compressions
Answer: A
Explanation: The AED should be used immediately when it is available, even before completing CPR cycles.
What should you do if the AED says “shock advised”?
Remove the pads
B. Continue compressions
C. Clear the victim and deliver the shock
D. Check for breathing again
Answer: C
Explanation: Always ensure no one is touching the victim before delivering a shock to prevent accidental injury.
For infant CPR with two rescuers, what is the compression-to-breath ratio?
30:2
B. 15:2
C. 5:1
D. 10:1
Answer: B
Explanation: For infants, when two rescuers are available, the correct ratio is 15 compressions to 2 breaths.
How should you deliver breaths using a pocket mask?
Blow as hard as possible
B. Over one second, making the chest rise
C. Rapidly and forcefully
D. Without watching the chest
Answer: B
Explanation: Each breath should last about one second and make the chest visibly rise, indicating effective ventilation.
Which pulse is checked in an unresponsive adult?
Radial pulse
B. Brachial pulse
C. Carotid pulse
D. Femoral pulse
Answer: C
Explanation: The carotid pulse is easiest and most reliable to assess in an adult during cardiac arrest.
Which action improves survival after cardiac arrest?
Delaying CPR for breathing assessment
B. Immediate defibrillation
C. Skipping compressions
D. Checking pulse every minute
Answer: B
Explanation: Immediate defibrillation significantly increases the chances of survival in shockable rhythms.
How often should rescuers switch roles during two-person CPR?
Every 5 minutes
B. After every rescue breath
C. Every 2 minutes
D. When exhausted
Answer: C
Explanation: Rescuers should switch every 2 minutes to reduce fatigue and maintain high-quality compressions.
What is the correct hand placement for adult chest compressions?
Lower abdomen
B. Upper chest
C. Center of the chest, on the lower half of the sternum
D. On the left side
Answer: C
Explanation: Compress on the lower half of the sternum, at the center of the chest.
If a choking adult becomes unresponsive, what should you do first?
Deliver a rescue breath
B. Begin CPR
C. Attempt to remove the object manually
D. Perform back blows
Answer: B
Explanation: Start CPR immediately. Compressions may help dislodge the object.
What is the correct technique for infant chest compressions using two fingers?
Just below the nipple line
B. On the lower abdomen
C. Above the clavicle
D. Middle of the chest
Answer: A
Explanation: Place two fingers just below the nipple line, on the sternum.
What is the best method for delivering breaths to an infant without a mask?
Mouth-to-mouth only
B. Mouth-to-nose only
C. Mouth-to-mouth-and-nose
D. Nose-to-mouth
Answer: C
Explanation: Use the mouth to cover both the mouth and nose of the infant to create a seal.
During CPR, interruptions to chest compressions should be limited to:
20 seconds
B. 5 seconds
C. Less than 10 seconds
D. 15 seconds
Answer: C
Explanation: Minimize interruptions to less than 10 seconds to maintain adequate circulation.
What is the primary purpose of high-quality CPR?
To replace AED use
B. To provide oxygen to the lungs
C. To restore spontaneous circulation
D. To prevent rib fractures
Answer: C
Explanation: The goal is to restore blood flow and spontaneous circulation until advanced care arrives.
Why are gasps not considered normal breathing?
They indicate the person is sleeping
B. They occur after CPR
C. They are irregular and ineffective
D. They signal recovery
Answer: C
Explanation: Agonal gasps are not normal and do not provide adequate oxygenation.
What action should be taken if the victim has a pulse but is not breathing?
Begin chest compressions
B. Provide rescue breaths only
C. Apply an AED
D. Do nothing
Answer: B
Explanation: Provide 1 breath every 5–6 seconds for adults with a pulse but no breathing.
What is the recommended compression depth for infants?
1 inch
B. 1.5 inches
C. 2 inches
D. 2.5 inches
Answer: B
Explanation: Compress to a depth of 1.5 inches (4 cm) for infants.
If an adult victim is not breathing and has no pulse, what do you do?
Give oxygen
B. Call for help and begin CPR
C. Perform Heimlich
D. Place in recovery position
Answer: B
Explanation: Immediate CPR is required for a pulseless, non-breathing individual.
What is the best way to open the airway of an unresponsive adult without trauma?
Jaw thrust
B. Head tilt-chin lift
C. Back blows
D. Heimlich maneuver
Answer: B
Explanation: Use the head tilt-chin lift unless trauma is suspected.
What is the correct compression-to-breath ratio for child CPR with a single rescuer?
30:2
B. 15:2
C. 10:2
D. 5:1
Answer: A
Explanation: A single rescuer uses a 30:2 ratio for both adults and children.
When performing CPR on a child, compress at what depth?
About 1 inch
B. 2.4 inches
C. About 2 inches
D. 1.5 inches
Answer: C
Explanation: For children, compress to a depth of about 2 inches (5 cm).
When should rescuers begin CPR?
After the AED arrives
B. When the person is unconscious and not breathing normally
C. Only in hospitals
D. After checking pulse for 60 seconds
Answer: B
Explanation: If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, begin CPR immediately.
What is the primary reason for early CPR in cardiac arrest?
It keeps the victim awake
B. It increases carbon dioxide levels
C. It improves oxygen flow to the heart and brain
D. It prevents seizures
Answer: C
Explanation: Early CPR helps maintain blood and oxygen flow to vital organs.
When using a bag-mask device, how many rescuers are ideal?
One
B. Two
C. Three
D. Four
Answer: B
Explanation: A two-rescuer approach is more effective for bag-mask ventilation—one maintains a seal, and the other squeezes the bag.
What is the correct ventilation rate for an adult with a pulse but no breathing?
5–6 breaths per minute
B. 10–12 breaths per minute
C. 20–24 breaths per minute
D. 30–40 breaths per minute
Answer: B
Explanation: Provide 1 breath every 5–6 seconds, totaling 10–12 breaths per minute.
When performing two-rescuer CPR on an adult, how do rescuers coordinate?
One delivers compressions while the other counts
B. They alternate every 5 minutes
C. One performs compressions, the other provides ventilations
D. Both perform compressions together
Answer: C
Explanation: In two-rescuer CPR, one rescuer performs compressions, while the other delivers ventilations to maximize efficiency.
If an AED pad overlaps on an infant’s chest, what should you do?
Use adult pads only
B. Do not use the AED
C. Use the anterior-posterior pad placement
D. Place both pads on the chest
Answer: C
Explanation: For small infants where pads may overlap, use anterior-posterior placement—one pad on the chest, one on the back.
What is the most common cause of cardiac arrest in infants and children?
Drug overdose
B. Congenital heart defects
C. Respiratory failure or shock
D. Sudden adult death syndrome
Answer: C
Explanation: Unlike adults, respiratory problems or shock are the leading causes of cardiac arrest in children.
If you suspect spinal injury, how should you open the airway?
Head tilt–chin lift
B. Jaw thrust without head tilt
C. Back blows
D. Chest thrusts
Answer: B
Explanation: Use the jaw-thrust method to open the airway if spinal trauma is suspected to prevent further injury.
How do you confirm the effectiveness of rescue breaths?
Check for air escape
B. Observe chest rise
C. Listen for air movement
D. Watch the stomach inflate
Answer: B
Explanation: Effective rescue breaths should cause visible chest rise indicating proper lung inflation.
What should you do after delivering a shock with an AED?
Check for a pulse immediately
B. Continue CPR starting with compressions
C. Wait for another rhythm analysis
D. Deliver another shock
Answer: B
Explanation: Resume chest compressions immediately after delivering a shock—don’t delay to check for pulse.
In an adult with advanced airway in place, what is the ventilation rate during CPR?
1 breath every 5–6 seconds
B. 1 breath every 2–3 seconds
C. 1 breath every 6–8 seconds
D. 2 breaths every 30 compressions
Answer: C
Explanation: With an advanced airway in place, provide 1 breath every 6–8 seconds without pausing compressions.
Which of the following best describes high-quality CPR?
Deep, slow compressions with long pauses
B. Shallow compressions with fast rate
C. Correct rate, depth, minimal interruptions, and full recoil
D. Random compression timing
Answer: C
Explanation: High-quality CPR requires the right rate (100–120), depth, minimal pauses, and complete chest recoil.
What is the first step when using an AED?
Deliver a shock
B. Attach pads
C. Turn it on
D. Plug in the battery
Answer: C
Explanation: Turn on the AED first—it will then give you step-by-step voice prompts for use.
Which condition would most likely need defibrillation?
Asystole
B. Normal sinus rhythm
C. Ventricular fibrillation
D. Pulseless electrical activity (PEA)
Answer: C
Explanation: Ventricular fibrillation (VF) is a shockable rhythm and the most common in sudden cardiac arrest.
Why should you avoid excessive ventilation during rescue breathing?
It makes the victim nauseous
B. It can increase intracranial pressure
C. It causes hyperventilation and reduces cardiac output
D. It causes chest pain
Answer: C
Explanation: Excessive ventilation increases intrathoracic pressure, reducing blood return to the heart and compromising CPR effectiveness.
What is the correct hand position for a child during chest compressions?
One hand or two hands on the lower half of the sternum
B. On the abdomen
C. Over the clavicle
D. Upper sternum
Answer: A
Explanation: Use one or two hands, depending on the child’s size, on the lower half of the sternum.
What is the compression rate for infants and children during CPR?
80–100 per minute
B. 60–80 per minute
C. 100–120 per minute
D. 140–160 per minute
Answer: C
Explanation: Same as adults—100 to 120 compressions per minute is the recommended rate.
What technique is used for chest compressions in infants with two rescuers?
One-finger technique
B. Two-finger technique
C. Two-thumb encircling hands technique
D. Palm method
Answer: C
Explanation: The two-thumb encircling technique is recommended for high-quality compressions in infants during two-rescuer CPR.
In a child with a pulse but inadequate breathing, how often should you give breaths?
Every 3–5 seconds
B. Every 6–8 seconds
C. Every 10 seconds
D. One breath per minute
Answer: A
Explanation: For children, provide 1 breath every 3–5 seconds if there’s a pulse but inadequate breathing.
What is the first step in the pediatric Chain of Survival?
Prevention of arrest
B. CPR
C. EMS response
D. Defibrillation
Answer: A
Explanation: Unlike adults, the first step in pediatric survival is prevention of respiratory and cardiac arrest.
What is a common cause of obstruction in unconscious choking adults?
Broken teeth
B. Tongue blocking the airway
C. Blood
D. Mucus
Answer: B
Explanation: The tongue may fall back and block the airway when muscle tone is lost in unconsciousness.
What is the appropriate action if the chest doesn’t rise during rescue breaths?
Blow harder
B. Tilt the head further
C. Reposition the head and try again
D. Start compressions
Answer: C
Explanation: If the chest doesn’t rise, reposition the head to ensure an open airway and attempt another breath.
If no barrier device is available, should you give mouth-to-mouth?
Never
B. Only to adults
C. Yes, if you’re willing and trained
D. Only if gloves are worn
Answer: C
Explanation: If comfortable and trained, mouth-to-mouth is better than no ventilations at all.
When delivering compressions, arms should be:
Bent at the elbows
B. Locked with straight elbows
C. Relaxed and slightly bent
D. Moving from the wrist
Answer: B
Explanation: Keep arms straight and locked, using your upper body weight to deliver effective compressions.
For a choking infant, what sequence should be used?
Heimlich and breaths
B. 5 back slaps followed by 5 chest thrusts
C. Head tilt and CPR
D. AED and rescue breaths
Answer: B
Explanation: For a conscious choking infant, deliver 5 back blows followed by 5 chest thrusts.
When is a pulse check necessary during CPR?
Every 10 minutes
B. Before each breath
C. After 2 minutes of CPR or if signs of life return
D. After every 5 compressions
Answer: C
Explanation: Check the pulse after every 2 minutes of CPR, or if the patient shows signs of return of circulation.
What is one purpose of early defibrillation?
To detect heart murmur
B. To increase CPR rate
C. To correct abnormal heart rhythm
D. To eliminate the need for compressions
Answer: C
Explanation: Defibrillation corrects deadly arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation, restoring normal rhythm.
Which of the following best describes PEA?
No electrical activity
B. Organized rhythm with no pulse
C. Normal pulse and rhythm
D. Shockable rhythm
Answer: B
Explanation: Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA) shows organized electrical rhythm without a mechanical pulse.
What should rescuers do if a child’s chest rises with rescue breaths?
Stop compressions
B. Increase breath volume
C. Continue CPR
D. Confirm airway is open
Answer: D
Explanation: Chest rise indicates effective ventilation and that the airway is open.
Which rhythm is non-shockable during cardiac arrest?
Ventricular fibrillation
B. Pulseless ventricular tachycardia
C. Asystole
D. Torsades de pointes
Answer: C
Explanation: Asystole (flatline) is a non-shockable rhythm. Continue CPR and administer epinephrine.
What is the appropriate compression-to-ventilation ratio for two-rescuer CPR in infants and children?
15:2
B. 30:2
C. 5:1
D. 20:2
Answer: A
Explanation: When two rescuers are present for an infant or child, use a 15:2 compression-to-ventilation ratio to optimize oxygenation.
What should you do if the AED states “no shock advised”?
Continue analyzing
B. Remove the AED
C. Resume CPR immediately
D. Wait 2 minutes before acting
Answer: C
Explanation: If no shock is advised, resume chest compressions immediately to maintain circulation.
Where should hands be placed when performing chest compressions on an adult?
Lower left of the chest
B. Upper sternum
C. Center of the chest, lower half of the sternum
D. Over the ribs
Answer: C
Explanation: For effective compressions, place hands on the center of the chest, specifically the lower half of the sternum.
What is the depth of chest compressions for a child?
About 1 inch
B. About 1/3 the depth of the chest, approximately 2 inches
C. 4 inches
D. Just enough to see movement
Answer: B
Explanation: For children, compress the chest about 1/3 of its depth, which is roughly 2 inches.
In BLS, what does the “C” in CAB stand for?
Circulation
B. Compressions
C. Consciousness
D. Cardiology
Answer: B
Explanation: In BLS, the CAB sequence stands for Compressions, Airway, and Breathing.
Why is minimizing interruptions during CPR important?
It prevents patient anxiety
B. It keeps rescuers on schedule
C. It improves blood flow to the brain and heart
D. It allows time for rescuers to rest
Answer: C
Explanation: Continuous compressions maintain blood flow, which is critical for brain and heart function during arrest.
Which artery is best for checking a pulse in an unresponsive adult?
Radial
B. Brachial
C. Carotid
D. Femoral
Answer: C
Explanation: Use the carotid artery in the neck to assess pulse in an unresponsive adult.
What is the main goal of BLS?
Eliminate chest pain
B. Restore spontaneous circulation
C. Transport patient to hospital
D. Deliver medications
Answer: B
Explanation: BLS aims to restore circulation and breathing, buying time until advanced care is available.
How do you ensure chest recoil during compressions?
Lift your hands slightly
B. Press harder
C. Lean on the chest
D. Allow the chest to return fully between compressions
Answer: D
Explanation: Letting the chest return fully allows the heart to refill and improves effectiveness of compressions.
During adult CPR, how often should rescuers switch roles to prevent fatigue?
Every 10 minutes
B. After 1 cycle of CPR
C. Every 2 minutes or 5 cycles
D. Only when tired
Answer: C
Explanation: Switch compressors every 2 minutes (or 5 cycles of 30:2) to ensure effective, high-quality compressions.
What does agonal breathing indicate?
The patient is stable
B. Normal breathing
C. A sign of cardiac arrest
D. An airway obstruction
Answer: C
Explanation: Agonal gasps are not normal breathing—they can occur in cardiac arrest and require immediate CPR.
When do you use the head-tilt/chin-lift technique?
If spinal injury is suspected
B. In unconscious victims with no suspected trauma
C. For infants only
D. During chest compressions
Answer: B
Explanation: Use head-tilt/chin-lift to open the airway when there’s no suspicion of spinal injury.
What is the correct compression rate for all age groups during CPR?
80–100 per minute
B. 90–110 per minute
C. 100–120 per minute
D. Over 130 per minute
Answer: C
Explanation: The recommended compression rate for infants, children, and adults is 100–120 per minute.
What is the best way to relieve severe choking in a responsive adult?
Back blows
B. Chest compressions
C. Abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver)
D. Rescue breathing
Answer: C
Explanation: For a conscious, choking adult, perform abdominal thrusts until the obstruction is relieved.
If a person is breathing but unresponsive, what should you do?
Start CPR
B. Place in recovery position and monitor
C. Give rescue breaths
D. Perform abdominal thrusts
Answer: B
Explanation: If a person is unconscious but breathing, place them in the recovery position to maintain an open airway.
Which is an acceptable method to give rescue breaths?
Bag-mask device
B. Mouth-to-mouth
C. Barrier mask with one-way valve
D. All of the above
Answer: D
Explanation: Rescue breaths can be delivered using any approved method, depending on availability and training.
For a choking infant who becomes unresponsive, what’s your next step?
Continue back blows
B. Sweep the mouth
C. Start CPR and look in mouth before each breath
D. Give abdominal thrusts
Answer: C
Explanation: Begin CPR immediately, and check the mouth before each breath to remove visible obstruction.
What action is recommended for a collapsed athlete who appears to be breathing but is unresponsive?
Wait and observe
B. Begin CPR
C. Perform abdominal thrusts
D. Shake the athlete awake
Answer: B
Explanation: Gasping or abnormal breathing may be misleading—begin CPR if the person is unresponsive.
Why is defibrillation important within the first few minutes of arrest?
It ensures airway patency
B. It improves long-term memory
C. It may restore a normal heart rhythm
D. It stabilizes blood sugar
Answer: C
Explanation: Early defibrillation greatly increases the chance of survival in sudden cardiac arrest.
What is the compression depth for an adult during CPR?
About 1 inch
B. About 1.5 inches
C. About 2 inches
D. At least 2 inches (5 cm)
Answer: D
Explanation: Compress the adult chest to a depth of at least 2 inches (5 cm) but not more than 2.4 inches.
Which age group requires the two-finger technique for compressions during CPR?
Adults
B. Children
C. Infants with single rescuer
D. Teenagers
Answer: C
Explanation: For infants with a single rescuer, use the two-finger compression technique.
What is the main risk of performing compressions on a person with a pulse?
None
B. Internal bleeding
C. Lung collapse
D. Rib fracture
Answer: D
Explanation: If CPR is performed unnecessarily, rib fractures can occur, though saving a life outweighs this risk.
What should you do if you’re alone with an unresponsive child and have no phone?
Leave the child and call EMS immediately
B. Perform 2 minutes of CPR, then activate EMS
C. Check for a pulse every 30 seconds
D. Wait for someone to help
Answer: B
Explanation: For children and infants, perform 2 minutes of CPR first, then activate EMS if you’re alone.
What is the most important action in the Chain of Survival?
Early CPR
B. Transport
C. Oxygen
D. EKG monitoring
Answer: A
Explanation: Early CPR is the foundation of the Chain of Survival and significantly improves outcomes.
What is the first step when using an AED?
Deliver a shock immediately
B. Check the battery
C. Turn on the AED
D. Apply chest compressions
Answer: C
Explanation: Always turn on the AED first to activate voice prompts and guidance.
What is the best way to check for responsiveness in a victim?
Feel for breath
B. Shout and gently tap the person
C. Look for skin color
D. Check their pulse
Answer: B
Explanation: To assess responsiveness, shout and tap the person’s shoulder firmly while checking for movement or reaction.
How should a rescuer breathe into an infant during rescue breathing?
Through the nose only
B. Through the mouth only
C. Using a high-pressure breath
D. Cover both mouth and nose with their mouth
Answer: D
Explanation: In infants, you should cover both the mouth and nose with your mouth to deliver effective breaths.
What is the purpose of chest compressions during CPR?
Restore consciousness
B. Deliver oxygen
C. Pump blood to vital organs
D. Break ribcage
Answer: C
Explanation: Chest compressions help circulate oxygenated blood to the brain and heart.
When should you activate the emergency response system if you’re alone with an adult victim?
After 2 minutes of CPR
B. Immediately upon finding unresponsiveness
C. After giving rescue breaths
D. Only if an AED is available
Answer: B
Explanation: For adults, call EMS immediately if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally.
What is the correct hand position for compressions on a child?
One hand on the lower ribs
B. Two fingers in the center of the chest
C. One or two hands on the lower half of the sternum
D. Across the chest
Answer: C
Explanation: Use one or two hands (based on size) on the lower half of the sternum to perform compressions on a child.
What is a sign of high-quality CPR?
Slow, deep compressions
B. Full chest recoil
C. Checking pulse after each cycle
D. Giving long rescue breaths
Answer: B
Explanation: Full chest recoil between compressions allows the heart to refill and improves CPR effectiveness.
What is the best way to avoid fatigue during prolonged CPR?
Pause every 5 minutes
B. Switch compressors every 2 minutes
C. Stop when tired
D. Compress slower
Answer: B
Explanation: Rescuers should switch every 2 minutes to maintain effective compressions and avoid fatigue.
How many chest compressions should be given per minute?
60–80
B. 90–100
C. 100–120
D. 130–150
Answer: C
Explanation: The recommended compression rate is 100–120 per minute for all age groups.
When should you begin CPR on an unresponsive victim with no normal breathing?
Immediately
B. After 5 minutes
C. After giving oxygen
D. After taking a pulse for 30 seconds
Answer: A
Explanation: Begin CPR immediately if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally.
Which component is most critical to survival in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest?
Medication
B. Defibrillation
C. Oxygen
D. Hospital transport
Answer: B
Explanation: Early defibrillation is the most critical link in the Chain of Survival for cardiac arrest.
When do you start rescue breathing in an adult with a pulse but no normal breathing?
Wait until breathing resumes
B. After chest compressions
C. Immediately at 1 breath every 5–6 seconds
D. After 2 minutes of observation
Answer: C
Explanation: For adults with a pulse but no normal breathing, give 1 breath every 5–6 seconds (about 10–12 breaths per minute).
What should you do if the victim has a pacemaker where the AED pad should go?
Skip the AED
B. Place the pad over it
C. Place the pad at least 1 inch away
D. Remove the pacemaker
Answer: C
Explanation: Place the AED pad at least 1 inch away from the pacemaker device.
What is the recommended compression-to-breath ratio for one-rescuer adult CPR?
15:1
B. 30:2
C. 5:1
D. 20:2
Answer: B
Explanation: Use a 30:2 ratio of compressions to breaths when performing adult CPR with one rescuer.
Which action reduces the risk of gastric inflation during CPR?
Giving breaths quickly
B. Giving breaths with excessive force
C. Delivering each breath over 1 second
D. Using a smaller AED pad
Answer: C
Explanation: Deliver each rescue breath over 1 second to reduce the chance of air entering the stomach.
When do you perform the jaw-thrust maneuver instead of head-tilt/chin-lift?
With a child
B. In suspected spinal injury
C. For unconscious adults
D. During defibrillation
Answer: B
Explanation: Use the jaw-thrust maneuver to open the airway if spinal injury is suspected.
What should you do if you see a child collapse and you’re alone?
Call 911 immediately
B. Start CPR for 2 minutes, then call 911
C. Give a shock
D. Only check breathing
Answer: B
Explanation: If alone and no phone is available, start 2 minutes of CPR, then activate EMS.
What should you check before delivering a shock with an AED?
Time since collapse
B. Hair on the chest
C. Clear area, no contact with victim
D. Skin color
Answer: C
Explanation: Ensure no one is touching the victim when delivering a shock to prevent injury to others.
Why is over-ventilating during CPR harmful?
Increases heart rate
B. Depletes oxygen
C. Can cause gastric inflation and decrease cardiac output
D. Helps patient wake up
Answer: C
Explanation: Over-ventilation can lead to gastric inflation, increasing the risk of aspiration and reducing blood flow.
What is the correct technique for back blows in an infant?
Strike the back while upright
B. Lay the infant face up and pat the back
C. Support the head, deliver 5 firm back blows between the shoulder blades
D. Do abdominal thrusts
Answer: C
Explanation: For a choking infant, deliver 5 back blows between the shoulder blades while supporting the head and neck.
What is the compression-to-breath ratio in two-rescuer adult CPR?
15:2
B. 30:2
C. 20:5
D. 10:1
Answer: B
Explanation: Even with two rescuers, the ratio remains 30:2 for adult victims.
When should you deliver rescue breaths alone without compressions?
During cardiac arrest
B. When victim has a pulse but is not breathing
C. If victim is breathing fast
D. After using an AED
Answer: B
Explanation: Rescue breathing only is appropriate when the person has a pulse but isn’t breathing normally.
What is the correct hand placement for chest compressions in a pregnant woman?
Same as for adults
B. Higher on the sternum
C. Just above the navel
D. At the base of the ribs
Answer: B
Explanation: In late pregnancy, place hands slightly higher on the sternum to avoid the uterus and improve effectiveness.
How often should you check for a pulse during CPR?
Every 5 minutes
B. Only after the AED
C. After 2 minutes of CPR
D. Never
Answer: C
Explanation: Check for a pulse every 2 minutes to determine if CPR should continue or stop.
What’s the minimum compression depth for infants?
1 inch
B. 2 inches
C. 1.5 inches
D. 0.5 inches
Answer: C
Explanation: For infants, compress to a depth of approximately 1.5 inches (4 cm), which is 1/3 the depth of the chest.
What is the ideal location to place AED pads on an adult?
Both pads on the back
B. One pad on the chest, one on the lower back
C. One on upper right chest, one on lower left side
D. Both on the abdomen
Answer: C
Explanation: Place one pad below the right collarbone, the other on the left side of the chest, under the armpit.
What is the first thing you do after confirming a victim is unresponsive?
Start chest compressions
B. Give rescue breaths
C. Call for help or activate EMS
D. Open the airway
Answer: C
Explanation: Once unresponsiveness is confirmed, activate EMS immediately to get professional help on the way.
Which of the following is part of the adult Chain of Survival?
Early birth
B. Early medication
C. Early defibrillation
D. Blood pressure monitoring
Answer: C
Explanation: Early defibrillation is a vital part of the Chain of Survival for cardiac arrest.
How do you assess breathing in an unresponsive person?
Look at skin color
B. Feel for chest movement and listen for breath sounds
C. Wait 1 minute
D. Shake them repeatedly
Answer: B
Explanation: Assess breathing by looking, listening, and feeling for chest movement and air flow.
What should you do after an AED delivers a shock?
Check pulse for 30 seconds
B. Resume CPR immediately
C. Wait for further instructions
D. Apply oxygen
Answer: B
Explanation: After a shock, resume CPR immediately to maintain circulation until a pulse returns.
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