Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

What is the best course of action when performing CPR on an adult patient?

1. Continue performing cycles of 15 compressions and 2 ventilations

2. Check for a pulse before performing any compressions

3. Perform cycles of 30 compressions and 2 ventilations, checking for an object before each ventilation

4. Begin with 2 ventilations followed by compressions

The correct answer is: Perform cycles of 30 compressions and 2 ventilations, checking for an object before each ventilation

The best course of action when performing CPR on an adult patient involves delivering cycles of 30 compressions followed by 2 ventilations. This method aligns with current guidelines from remarkable authorities such as the American Heart Association. The rationale behind this sequence is that high-quality chest compressions are crucial for maintaining blood circulation and oxygen delivery to vital organs. Initiating with 30 compressions ensures that the circulation is prioritized, maximizing the chance of restoring normal heart rhythm and improving the overall outcome. After the compressions, giving 2 ventilations provides the patient with oxygen, which is essential for brain function and overall survival. While checking for a pulse might seem reasonable, delaying compressions while assessing for a pulse can waste valuable time, especially in critical situations where every second counts. Additionally, beginning CPR with ventilations is less effective than emphasizing compressions first to establish blood flow before addressing oxygenation. Thus, the structured 30 to 2 cycle is specifically designed to optimize resuscitation efforts in adult patients.