Chest Compressions & Defibrillation Flashcards

What is the correct hand placement for adult chest compressions?

Answer: On the lower half of the sternum

The correct hand placement for adult chest compressions is on the lower half of the sternum, in the center of the chest. This position ensures that compressions are delivered directly over the heart, maximizing effectiveness. Proper placement also helps avoid injury to other organs or the xiphoid process.

What is the appropriate depth of chest compressions for children during CPR?

Answer: 2 inches

For children during CPR, the appropriate depth of chest compressions is about 2 inches (5 cm), or approximately one-third the depth of the chest. This depth is crucial for effectively circulating blood to vital organs. It balances the need for adequate compression with the child's smaller body size to prevent injury.

Which of the following improves the effectiveness of chest compressions?

Answer: Allowing full chest recoil

Allowing full chest recoil significantly improves the effectiveness of chest compressions. Full recoil permits the heart to refill completely with blood between compressions, maximizing the amount of blood pumped with each subsequent compression. Leaning on the chest prevents this vital refilling and reduces blood flow.

How long should interruptions in chest compressions be limited to?

Answer: 10 seconds

Interruptions in chest compressions should be limited to no more than 10 seconds. Minimizing these interruptions is critical because blood flow to the brain and heart stops when compressions cease. Prolonged pauses can significantly reduce the chances of survival during cardiac arrest.

When using an AED, what is the first step after turning it on?

Answer: Attach electrode pads

When using an AED, the first step after turning it on is to attach the electrode pads to the victim's bare chest. This allows the AED to analyze the heart's electrical rhythm. Without the pads properly attached, the device cannot assess whether a shock is needed.

What should you do if the AED says 'shock advised'?

Answer: Deliver the shock

If the AED says 'shock advised,' you must deliver the shock immediately. The AED has detected a shockable rhythm, such as ventricular fibrillation, which can be corrected by defibrillation. Prompt delivery of the shock is critical to restore a normal heart rhythm and improve the victim's chances of survival.

What is the recommended placement of AED pads on an adult?

Answer: Upper right chest and lower left side

The recommended placement of AED pads on an adult is one pad on the upper right chest, just below the collarbone, and the other on the lower left side of the chest, below the armpit. This placement ensures that the electrical current passes through the heart. Correct pad placement is essential for effective defibrillation.

When should the AED reanalyze the rhythm?

Answer: Every 2 minutes

The AED typically reanalyzes the heart rhythm approximately every 2 minutes during CPR. This allows the device to reassess the victim's condition and determine if another shock is necessary or if CPR should continue. This cycle ensures that defibrillation is delivered when appropriate, interspersed with high-quality chest compressions.

Why is early defibrillation critical in cardiac arrest?

Answer: It restores normal heart rhythm

Early defibrillation is critical in cardiac arrest because it can restore a normal heart rhythm. Many cardiac arrests are caused by ventricular fibrillation, a chaotic electrical activity in the heart. A defibrillation shock can stop this abnormal rhythm, allowing the heart's natural pacemaker to resume normal function.