Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

What type of victim would need only rescue breathing?

1. No breathing and a pulse

2. Breathing but no pulse

3. Unconscious and not breathing

4. Conscious and wheezing

The correct answer is: No breathing and a pulse

A victim who is not breathing but still has a pulse requires only rescue breathing because the heart is still functioning and circulating blood, but the person is unable to provide adequate oxygenation to the body due to the lack of breathing. In this situation, rescue breathing can provide the necessary oxygen to the lungs and, in turn, to the vital organs, while allowing the heart to continue perfusing the blood. Proper rescue breathing involves delivering breaths at a rate and volume that ensures adequate ventilation, typically at a ratio of 1 breath every 5 to 6 seconds, which is approximately 10 to 12 breaths per minute for an adult. This intervention is crucial as it helps to maintain oxygen levels in the blood until further help arrives or until the victim begins to breathe normally again. Other scenarios do not fit this need for solely rescue breathing. For instance, a victim who has a pulse but is breathing inadequately (such as wheezing) may require additional interventions like using an inhaler or other medications. Conversely, if someone is unconscious and not breathing, they would need more comprehensive support that includes chest compressions alongside rescue breaths, indicating that they are in cardiac arrest. Therefore, the context of a pulse and the absence of breathing specifically defines the need