Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

What indicates that bag-valve-mask ventilations are being performed correctly?

1. The chest does not rise

2. The patient coughs intermittently

3. The chest begins to rise

4. The ventilations are silent

The correct answer is: The chest begins to rise

The indication that bag-valve-mask ventilations are being performed correctly is when the chest begins to rise. This is a crucial sign because it demonstrates that air is being effectively delivered into the lungs, allowing for proper ventilation. When the chest rises, it confirms that the mask is properly sealed over the patient's face, the airway is open, and the ventilations are providing positive pressure to inflate the lungs. Other choices provide signs that do not indicate effective ventilation. For example, if the chest does not rise, it suggests that air is not entering the lungs, which could be due to improper mask fit, airway obstruction, or inadequate pressure. Similarly, intermittent coughing does not signal effective ventilation; instead, it may indicate that the patient is trying to breathe on their own or is experiencing irritation. Silent ventilations are also not a positive indicator, as they could mean that air is not being delivered to the lungs properly.