First Aid CPR and AED Procedures Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When performing CPR on an adult, what is the correct rate and depth for chest compressions?
- A rate of 80-100 compressions per minute and a depth of 1.5 inches.
- A rate of 100-120 compressions per minute and a depth of at least 2 inches. (Correct answer)
- A rate of 120-140 compressions per minute and a depth of 2.5 inches.
- A rate of at least 60 compressions per minute and a depth of 1 inch.
Correct answer: A rate of 100-120 compressions per minute and a depth of at least 2 inches.
According to the American Red Cross and American Heart Association guidelines, high-quality CPR on an adult requires a compression rate of 100 to 120 per minute and a depth of at least 2 inches (5 cm) but not more than 2.4 inches (6 cm). This ensures adequate blood circulation to vital organs.
Question 2: You are responding to a person who has collapsed. After ensuring the scene is safe and checking for responsiveness, you find they are not breathing. An AED has just arrived. What is the immediate next step?
- Begin chest compressions immediately.
- Give two rescue breaths.
- Turn on the AED and follow its prompts. (Correct answer)
- Check for a pulse for 30 seconds.
Correct answer: Turn on the AED and follow its prompts.
As soon as an AED is available, it should be used immediately. The first step in using an AED is to turn it on. The device will then guide you through the next steps, including pad placement and analysis of the heart rhythm. Early defibrillation is critical for survival in cases of sudden cardiac arrest.
Question 3: Which of the following describes the correct placement for AED pads on an adult?
- One pad on the center of the chest and the other on the center of the back.
- Both pads placed side-by-side on the left side of the chest.
- One pad on the upper right side of the chest and the other on the lower left side of the chest. (Correct answer)
- One pad on the abdomen and the other on the upper left shoulder.
Correct answer: One pad on the upper right side of the chest and the other on the lower left side of the chest.
The standard anterolateral placement for AED pads on an adult is to place one pad on the upper right side of the bare chest (below the collarbone) and the other pad on the lower left side of the chest, under the armpit. This allows the electrical shock to pass through the heart.
Question 4: A rescuer is performing CPR on an infant (under 1 year old). Which technique should be used for chest compressions?
- The heel of one hand in the center of the chest.
- Two hands interlocked, pressing on the sternum.
- The palm of one hand on the upper abdomen.
- Two fingers in the center of the chest, just below the nipple line. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Two fingers in the center of the chest, just below the nipple line.
For an infant, chest compressions should be performed using two fingers (or two thumbs with hands encircling the chest if two rescuers are present) in the center of the chest, just below the nipple line. The compression depth should be about 1.5 inches (4 cm).
Question 5: After an AED delivers a shock, what is the most appropriate immediate action?
- Wait for the AED to reanalyze the heart rhythm.
- Check for a pulse and breathing for up to 10 seconds.
- Immediately resume chest compressions. (Correct answer)
- Give two rescue breaths and then wait for instructions.
Correct answer: Immediately resume chest compressions.
Immediately after a shock is delivered (or if no shock is advised), the rescuer should resume high-quality chest compressions. Minimizing interruptions to chest compressions is crucial for maintaining blood flow to the brain and heart. The AED will typically prompt you to begin CPR.
Question 6: While preparing to use an AED, you notice the person has a medication patch on their chest where a pad needs to be placed. What should you do?
- Place the AED pad directly over the medication patch.
- Remove the patch with a gloved hand, wipe the area clean, and then apply the pad. (Correct answer)
- Move the AED pad to a different location on the chest, even if it's incorrect.
- Do not use the AED until emergency medical services arrive.
Correct answer: Remove the patch with a gloved hand, wipe the area clean, and then apply the pad.
Medication patches can block the electrical current from the AED and may cause burns. Before applying an AED pad, you should remove any patches from the chest using a gloved hand, quickly wipe the area dry, and then place the pad correctly.
When performing CPR on an adult, what is the correct rate and depth for chest compressions?