ACLS and BLS Basics

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When performing CPR, what is the recommended compression rate?
The recommended compression rate for CPR is 100-120 compressions per minute. This rate maximizes cardiac output while still allowing for full chest recoil and compressions of appropriate depth. It's fast enough to maintain blood flow but not so fast that it compromises the quality of compressions.
What is the recommended depth for chest compressions on an adult?
For adult CPR, the recommended depth for chest compressions is 2-2.4 inches (5-6 cm). This depth ensures adequate blood flow without risking injury to internal organs. It's important to allow full chest recoil between compressions to allow the heart to refill with blood.
Which of the following is a common cause of cardiac arrest?
Ventricular Fibrillation (V-Fib) is a common cause of sudden cardiac arrest. It's a serious cardiac rhythm disturbance where the heart quivers instead of contracting normally, preventing effective blood pumping. While conditions like hypertension and diabetes can contribute to heart disease, they don't directly cause immediate cardiac arrest like V-Fib can.
What is the first step in the BLS algorithm?
The first step in the BLS algorithm is recognizing cardiac arrest. Quick recognition is crucial for initiating the chain of survival. Signs include sudden collapse, absence of pulse, no breathing, and loss of consciousness. Recognizing these signs promptly allows for immediate action and increases the chances of survival.
When assessing for a pulse, how long should you check before determining that there is none present?
When checking for a pulse, you should spend no more than 10 seconds. This timeframe is long enough to accurately detect a pulse if present, but not so long that it significantly delays the start of CPR if needed. If no pulse is felt after 10 seconds, you should immediately begin chest compressions.
What is the recommended compression to ventilation ratio for BLS in adults?
The recommended ratio for adult BLS is 30 compressions to 2 ventilations. This ratio emphasizes the importance of chest compressions in maintaining blood flow. Research has shown that this ratio provides better perfusion of oxygenated blood to vital organs, including the heart and brain.
In an unwitnessed arrest of a child, when should you call for advanced medical personnel during BLS?
In an unwitnessed arrest of a child, you should perform CPR for 2 minutes (about 5 cycles) before leaving to call for help or get an AED. This approach is different from adult BLS because children are more likely to have a respiratory cause for their arrest, and immediate CPR might resolve the issue.
When performing BLS on an infant, what is the recommended depth for chest compressions?
For infant CPR, the recommended compression depth is approximately 1.5 inches (4 cm) or about 1/3 the depth of the infant's chest. This depth ensures adequate blood flow while minimizing the risk of injury to the infant's more delicate anatomy. It's crucial to allow full chest recoil between compressions.
What is the primary goal of basic life support?
The primary goal of BLS is to restore spontaneous circulation. While increasing oxygen levels and controlling bleeding can be important, the main focus is on restoring the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. This is achieved through a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths, aiming to maintain vital organ function until advanced care is available.
When should an automated external defibrillator (AED) be used during basic life support?
An AED should be used as soon as it's available after recognizing cardiac arrest and starting CPR. Early defibrillation is crucial for shockable rhythms like ventricular fibrillation. The sooner an AED is applied, the higher the chances of successful resuscitation. AEDs are designed for use by both lay rescuers and healthcare professionals.
What is the correct hand placement for performing chest compressions on an adult?
The correct hand placement for adult chest compressions is on the lower half of the breastbone (sternum). This position allows for the most effective compression of the heart against the spine, maximizing blood flow. Placing hands too high or to either side can reduce the effectiveness of compressions and potentially cause injury.