Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

If a victim of cardiac arrest has an implanted pacemaker or defibrillator, what should you avoid?

1. Using high-voltage equipment nearby

2. Placing the AED pad directly over the implanted device

3. Performing CPR without assistance

4. Giving rescue breaths

The correct answer is: Placing the AED pad directly over the implanted device

When dealing with a victim of cardiac arrest who has an implanted pacemaker or defibrillator, it is crucial to position the AED pads appropriately. Placing the AED pad directly over the implanted device can interfere with its function. AED pads should instead be placed at least one inch away from the device to ensure that the electric shock delivered by the AED can effectively establish a normal heart rhythm without damaging the device itself or affecting its operation. In terms of other considerations, while using high-voltage equipment nearby is generally a safety precaution, it is not as specific to the action taken when an implanted device is present. Performing CPR is critical, and it can be done regardless of the presence of a pacemaker or defibrillator, so assistance is not a barrier to performing high-quality CPR. Lastly, giving rescue breaths can be performed, and it is recommended based on the patient's condition; thus, it is not an action to avoid based on the presence of an implanted device.