Defibrillation & Airway Management Flashcards
7 cards from real ECC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Defibrillation & Airway Management flashcards as text
A patient in cardiac arrest has a pacemaker with electrodes implanted in the right ventricle. Where should AED pads be placed?
Answer: At least 1 inch (2.5 cm) away from the implanted device
AED pads must be placed at least 1 inch away from implanted pacemakers or ICDs to prevent device interference and ensure adequate current flow.
What is the primary purpose of cricoid pressure (Sellick maneuver) during airway management?
Answer: To reduce risk of passive regurgitation and aspiration
Cricoid pressure occludes the esophagus by compressing it against the vertebral body, reducing the risk of regurgitation during intubation.
Which of the following is a REVERSIBLE cause of PEA identified by the 'H's and T's' framework?
Answer: Hypovolemia
Hypovolemia is one of the 'H's' — a reversible cause of PEA that can be corrected with fluid resuscitation during cardiac arrest management.
An oropharyngeal airway (OPA) is sized correctly when it extends from the:
Answer: Corner of the mouth to the earlobe
The OPA should be sized by measuring from the corner of the mouth to the earlobe (or center of mouth to angle of jaw), ensuring correct length to lift the tongue off the pharynx.
In witnessed VF cardiac arrest in a hospital setting with immediate defibrillator access, what is the priority action?
Answer: Defibrillate immediately, then begin CPR
For witnessed, monitored VF with an immediately available defibrillator, defibrillation should occur as soon as possible, as every minute without it reduces survival by 7–10%.
Which situation warrants use of a video laryngoscope rather than direct laryngoscopy during cardiac arrest intubation?
Answer: Anticipated difficult airway or failed direct laryngoscopy
Video laryngoscopy is indicated for anticipated or known difficult airways or after failed direct laryngoscopy, improving first-pass success rates.
After successful defibrillation, the patient develops a perfusing rhythm. Oxygen saturation is 88% on 100% FiO2 via BVM. What is the next airway management step?
Answer: Insert an advanced airway to secure ventilation
Persistent hypoxia after ROSC despite BVM ventilation warrants advanced airway placement to secure oxygenation and ventilation during post-resuscitation care.