Basic Life Support Exam A Answers 25 Questions 2024

Basic Life Support Exam: A Comprehensive Guide to 25 Essential Questions & Answers (2024)

This comprehensive guide prepares you for your Basic Life Support (BLS) exam. We'll cover 25 crucial questions and answers, focusing on the practical skills and knowledge necessary for providing effective emergency care. Remember, this information is for educational purposes only and should not replace formal BLS training from a certified instructor. Always refer to the most current guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA) or the European Resuscitation Council (ERC).

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with qualified medical professionals for any health concerns.

Section 1: Recognizing and Responding to Emergencies

1. What are the first steps in responding to an emergency situation?

The first step is to ensure your own safety. Assess the scene for any immediate dangers (e.g., traffic, fire, downed power lines). Then, check for responsiveness: gently tap the person and shout, "Are you okay?" If they don't respond, activate the emergency response system (call 911 or your local equivalent).

2. How do you check for responsiveness in an unconscious adult?

Gently tap the person's shoulder and shout, "Are you okay?" Observe for any response – movement, sound, or opening of the eyes.

3. What is the purpose of activating the emergency response system (EMS)?

Activating EMS is crucial because it brings trained professionals with advanced equipment and medication to the scene. They can provide definitive care that you cannot.

4. What information should you provide to the EMS dispatcher?

Provide your location (as precisely as possible), the nature of the emergency, the number of victims, and the apparent condition of the person(s) involved. Remain calm and answer their questions clearly.

Section 2: Chest Compressions and Airway Management

5. What is the correct hand position for chest compressions on an adult?

Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest, between the nipples. Place the other hand on top, interlacing your fingers. Keep your arms straight and push hard and fast.

6. What is the correct compression depth for an adult?

At least 2 inches (5 cm) for adults.

7. What is the correct rate for chest compressions?

100-120 compressions per minute.

8. What is the ratio of compressions to breaths in adult CPR?

30 compressions to 2 breaths.

9. How do you open the airway for rescue breaths?

Use the head-tilt-chin-lift maneuver. Gently tilt the head back and lift the chin. This helps to open the airway. Avoid this maneuver if you suspect a neck injury. In that case, use the jaw-thrust maneuver.

10. How do you give rescue breaths?

Seal your mouth over the person's mouth and nose, creating an airtight seal. Give two breaths lasting about 1 second each, watching for chest rise.

11. How do you check for a pulse in an unconscious adult?

Check for a carotid pulse (on the neck, alongside the windpipe) for no more than 10 seconds. If you cannot find a pulse, begin chest compressions.

Section 3: Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Use

12. What is the purpose of an AED?

An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) analyzes the heart rhythm and delivers an electric shock (defibrillation) if necessary to restore a normal heart rhythm.

13. What are the steps in using an AED?

1. Turn on the AED.
2. Follow the AED's voice prompts.
3. Attach the pads to the person's chest as indicated on the pads.
4. Ensure no one is touching the person.
5. Allow the AED to analyze the heart rhythm.
6. Deliver the shock if advised by the AED.
7. Immediately resume CPR after the shock.

14. What precautions should you take when using an AED?

Ensure the area is dry. Do not use an AED in the presence of water or flammable materials. Never touch the person while the AED is analyzing or delivering a shock.

Section 4: Choking and Other Emergencies

15. What are the signs of choking in an adult?

Inability to speak, cough weakly or not at all, grasping at the throat, difficulty breathing, and skin turning blue.

16. How do you perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) on a choking adult?

Stand behind the choking adult. Wrap your arms around their waist. Make a fist with one hand and place it just above their navel. Grasp your fist with your other hand and give quick, upward thrusts into their abdomen until the object is dislodged or they become unconscious.

17. What is the difference between stable and unstable angina?

Stable angina is chest pain that occurs predictably with exertion and is relieved by rest or nitroglycerin. Unstable angina is chest pain that occurs unpredictably, is more severe, and may not be relieved by rest or medication. This is a medical emergency.

18. What are the signs and symptoms of a stroke?

Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side of the body); confusion; trouble speaking or understanding speech; trouble seeing; trouble walking; dizziness; severe headache with no known cause. This is often remembered by the acronym FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, Time).

19. What is the immediate action for suspected stroke?

Call 911 immediately. Note the time of symptom onset.

Section 5: Pediatric BLS

20. What are the differences between adult and child CPR?

The main differences involve compression depth and rescuer ratios. Compression depth for children is about 2 inches (5 cm) or one-third the depth of the chest. The compression-to-breath ratio is 30:2 for one-rescuer child CPR and 15:2 for two-rescuer child CPR. For infants, use two fingers for compressions.

21. How do you perform CPR on an infant?

Use two fingers to perform chest compressions on an infant. The compression rate is the same as for adults and children (100-120 compressions per minute).

Section 6: Additional Considerations

22. What are some important safety considerations when providing BLS?

Always prioritize your own safety. Be aware of potential hazards at the scene. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as available, such as gloves.

23. What is the importance of teamwork and communication in BLS?

Effective teamwork and communication are critical during emergencies. Clearly communicate roles and responsibilities to ensure coordinated and efficient care.

Section 7: Post-Resuscitation Care

24. What should you do after CPR has been initiated and the victim is responsive?

Continue monitoring their vital signs. Place them in the recovery position (if there are no neck or spine injuries). Continue to provide care and support until EMS arrives.

25. What are some common causes of cardiac arrest?

Some of the most common causes include heart attack (myocardial infarction), arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), respiratory arrest, severe trauma, and drug overdose.

This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for your BLS exam preparation. Remember, hands-on training and practice are essential for mastering BLS skills. Seek out certified BLS courses to gain the necessary practical experience. Good luck with your exam! Stay safe and save lives.