Assessment & Recognition of Cardiac Arrest Flashcards
7 cards from real CPR practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Assessment & Recognition of Cardiac Arrest flashcards as text
Which sequence reflects the correct adult Chain of Survival starting point for a lay rescuer?
Answer: Recognition and activation of EMS first
The chain begins with recognizing arrest and activating the emergency response system.
You tap and shout at a collapsed adult and get no response. There is no chest rise over 10 seconds. What do you conclude?
Answer: Cardiac arrest is likely; begin CPR
No response and no breathing within 10 seconds indicates cardiac arrest, so CPR should begin.
Why should the breathing check be done while simultaneously checking the pulse for trained rescuers?
Answer: To minimize delay before starting compressions
Combining the checks reduces the time before chest compressions can begin if needed.
An adult suddenly clutches their chest and collapses unresponsive. What recognition cue is most important?
Answer: Witnessed sudden collapse with unresponsiveness
A witnessed sudden collapse with unresponsiveness is a key sign of sudden cardiac arrest.
What is a common mistake when recognizing cardiac arrest that delays CPR?
Answer: Mistaking agonal gasping for normal breathing
Confusing agonal gasps with normal breathing is a frequent error that delays life-saving CPR.
For a drowning victim who is unresponsive and not breathing, how does recognition guide initial care?
Answer: Prioritize rescue breaths/oxygenation due to hypoxic cause
Drowning arrest is hypoxic in origin, so ventilation and oxygenation are especially important alongside compressions.
What should you do if you are unsure whether an unresponsive adult is breathing normally?
Answer: Assume cardiac arrest and begin CPR
When in doubt about normal breathing in an unresponsive adult, treat it as arrest and start CPR.