Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

What is the maximum amount of time you should spend checking for breathing and a pulse?

1. No more than 10 seconds

2. No more than 30 seconds

3. No more than 5 seconds

4. No more than 15 seconds

The correct answer is: No more than 10 seconds

In Basic Life Support (BLS), it is critical to act quickly and efficiently when responding to a potential cardiac arrest. The guideline indicates that the maximum amount of time to check for breathing and a pulse is no more than 10 seconds. This time constraint is crucial because prolonged checks can delay the initiation of lifesaving measures such as chest compressions and rescue breaths. If you find that the person is not breathing or has no pulse, immediate intervention in the form of CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) should follow without hesitation. By limiting the time you check for breathing and a pulse to 10 seconds, you ensure that you maintain the necessary urgency in providing care, which can significantly improve the chances of survival for the individual experiencing cardiac arrest.