Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

Which of the following indicates that a person is in need of CPR?

1. Responsive but drowsy

2. Breathing normally

3. Unresponsive without normal breathing

4. Breathing rapidly

The correct answer is: Unresponsive without normal breathing

A person is in need of CPR when they are unresponsive and not breathing normally. This situation indicates that the individual has a compromised airway or has suffered a cardiac arrest, where the heart is not effectively pumping blood. In such circumstances, immediate action is required to restore circulation and provide oxygen to the vital organs, particularly the brain. When a person is unresponsive, it means they are not able to react to stimuli, which could range from verbal cues to physical prompts. If they are additionally not breathing, or if their breathing is abnormal (for example, gasping or only occasional breaths), this further confirms the critical need for CPR. CPR serves to provide artificial circulation and maintain blood flow to the heart and brain until emergency medical help can arrive. In contrast, individuals who are responsive but drowsy may still have functioning systems that do not require CPR. Similarly, if someone is breathing normally or even rapidly, they are typically in a condition that does not warrant CPR. Normal or rapid breathing suggests that the person is still capable of oxygen exchange, reducing the need for immediate life-saving interventions like CPR.