Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

True or False: High-quality CPR is more important than naloxone administration in a cardiac arrest case due to opioid overdose.

1. True

2. False

3. Depends on the situation

4. Only true for children

The correct answer is: True

High-quality CPR is indeed more important than naloxone administration in the context of a cardiac arrest case resulting from an opioid overdose. The reason for this prioritization revolves around the immediate need to restore circulation and oxygenation to vital organs, especially the brain, which can only be effectively addressed through high-quality chest compressions. When someone experiences a cardiac arrest, their heart is no longer pumping blood effectively, leading to a cessation of blood flow and, consequently, oxygen deprivation to critical body parts. Administering high-quality CPR helps to maintain some level of circulation, prolonging the chance of survival until advanced medical help arrives. The American Heart Association emphasizes that high-quality CPR can double or triple a person's chance of survival. While naloxone is an essential medication that can reverse the effects of opioid overdose, its administration is secondary to the immediate life-saving measure of CPR. If a person is in cardiac arrest, without effective chest compressions, the opportunity for naloxone to be beneficial diminishes significantly. This is particularly crucial to remember since delay in providing CPR can lead to permanent neurological damage or death, making it the priority intervention in such emergencies.