Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

You come upon a child who has collapsed and is in cardiac arrest. What action should you take first if you are alone?

1. Call 911 for emergency help

2. Perform about 2 minutes of CPR, starting with chest compressions

3. Look for signs of life

4. Search for an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

The correct answer is: Perform about 2 minutes of CPR, starting with chest compressions

When you encounter a child who has collapsed and is suspected to be in cardiac arrest, taking immediate action is crucial to improve the chances of survival. The recommended first step when you are alone is to perform about 2 minutes of CPR, beginning with chest compressions. This is vital because the primary goal in a cardiac arrest situation is to restore blood flow to vital organs. Performing chest compressions helps maintain circulation and oxygen delivery to the brain and other critical organs until emergency medical services can take over or until an automated external defibrillator (AED) can be used. By initiating CPR immediately, you are providing the necessary support that may help save the child’s life. This approach prioritizes creating a continuous flow of oxygenated blood, which is far more effective than waiting to activate emergency services or looking for signs of life, which could delay critical intervention. Moreover, while searching for an AED could be beneficial later in the process, starting CPR immediately has a more direct impact on the survival of the child in cardiac arrest.