Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

What is a key indicator that ventilations are being delivered properly to an infant?

1. Heart beating faster

2. Chest begins to rise

3. Skin color returns to normal

4. Breath sounds are audible

The correct answer is: Chest begins to rise

The correct answer is that the chest begins to rise. This is a key indicator that ventilations are being delivered effectively to an infant. When performed correctly, positive pressure ventilation should cause the chest to rise and fall as air is delivered into the lungs. This movement indicates that air is entering the lungs and that the infant is receiving adequate ventilation. While other indicators may provide some information about the effectiveness of the ventilations, they are not as direct. For example, an increased heart rate can occur for various reasons and does not specifically confirm that ventilation is occurring effectively. Normal skin color is significant and may suggest good oxygenation but can also lag behind other physical responses. Audible breath sounds can indicate air movement in the lungs but might not be as readily discernible in infants, especially in emergency situations. Focusing on the physical movement of the chest allows responders to visually confirm that ventilation is taking place, making it the most tangible indicator in this scenario.