Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

Is it true or false that if chest thrusts are ineffective, you should then attempt 5 back blows and 5 chest thrusts?

1. True

2. False

3. It depends on the situation

4. Only if the airway is still obstructed

The correct answer is: True

The statement is true. In cases of a conscious adult or child who is conscious and experiencing a severe airway obstruction, when chest thrusts are ineffective, the recommended approach is to alternate between back blows and chest thrusts. Specifically, the procedure involves administering 5 back blows followed by 5 chest thrusts. This method is part of the sequence of maneuvers used to dislodge an obstruction in a victim’s airway. Back blows help create a forceful impact to generate pressure in the chest that can potentially dislodge the object blocking the airway. If these attempts fail, chest thrusts are then applied to further increase the chances of clearing the obstruction. Using a combination of back blows and chest thrusts enhances the effectiveness of the intervention and strikingly improves the likelihood of a successful outcome in relieving the obstruction. Other options might imply alternate procedures or conditions that are not aligned with established guidelines for managing severe airway obstructions in conscious victims.