Team Dynamics & Communication Flashcards

A rescuer is rotating into the compressor role. To minimize interruption in CPR, the handoff should occur:

Answer: Immediately after a shock is delivered or during a rhythm check

Switching compressors during a planned pause — such as after a shock or during a pulse check — minimizes interruptions to chest compressions.

Which phrase BEST demonstrates assertive communication during a resuscitation?

Answer: 'Stop — I believe the compression depth is insufficient and needs to be deeper'

Assertive communication is direct, clear, and timely; it states the concern and the needed action without hedging or deferring inappropriately.

During a pediatric cardiac arrest, a parent is present and becoming very distressed. The BEST team response is to:

Answer: Have one team member briefly acknowledge the parent and assign another to support them away from the immediate area

Designating one rescuer to support the family member maintains resuscitation quality while providing compassionate management of the emotional situation.

After a failed resuscitation attempt, the team leader's FIRST responsibility regarding the team is to:

Answer: Acknowledge the team's effort and provide initial emotional support

Acknowledging the emotional impact on team members after a difficult resuscitation is a key leadership responsibility that supports team well-being.

If a rescuer realizes they have been performing compressions at the wrong depth, the CORRECT response is to:

Answer: Immediately self-correct and verbally announce the adjustment to the team

Self-correcting immediately and announcing it maintains transparency and alerts the team that quality has been adjusted, supporting shared situational awareness.

What is the main reason BLS courses emphasize simulation and team scenarios during training?

Answer: To build muscle memory and communication habits under realistic stress before real events

Simulation allows learners to practice both technical skills and team communication under controlled stress, building automatic behaviors that transfer to real emergencies.

A team member disagrees with the team leader's decision to stop resuscitation efforts. The APPROPRIATE action is to:

Answer: Calmly and privately express the concern to the team leader and request a brief explanation

Expressing disagreement calmly and respectfully to the team leader allows for reconsideration without disrupting team function or undermining authority publicly.