This comprehensive guide provides answers to 25 common Basic Life Support (BLS) exam questions. Remember, this information is for educational purposes only and should not replace proper BLS training from a certified instructor. Always refer to your official BLS provider's materials for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Your certification exam may differ.
Understanding BLS: A Quick Overview
Before diving into the answers, let's refresh our understanding of Basic Life Support. BLS is the immediate care given to someone who has stopped breathing or whose heart has stopped beating. It includes crucial steps like checking for responsiveness, activating emergency medical services (EMS), performing chest compressions, and rescue breaths. The goal of BLS is to preserve life and minimize long-term disability until advanced medical help arrives.
25 BLS Exam Questions & Answers (2022)
This section presents 25 sample questions commonly found on BLS exams, along with their corresponding answers. Remember that these are examples only, and the specific questions on your exam might vary.
Note: For the best learning experience, try answering these questions before looking at the answers. This will help you identify areas where you need more review.
Question 1: What is the first step in BLS? Answer: Check for responsiveness.
Question 2: What is the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio for adult single-rescuer BLS? Answer: 30:2
Question 3: How deep should chest compressions be for an adult? Answer: At least 2 inches (5 cm).
Question 4: What is the rate of chest compressions for an adult? Answer: 100-120 compressions per minute.
Question 5: When should you stop BLS? Answer: When EMS takes over, the patient shows signs of life, you are too exhausted to continue, or the scene becomes unsafe.
Question 6: What is the purpose of checking for a pulse in BLS? Answer: To determine if the heart is beating effectively.
Question 7: How do you open an airway in an unresponsive adult? Answer: Head-tilt-chin-lift maneuver.
Question 8: What is the appropriate hand placement for chest compressions on an adult? Answer: The lower half of the sternum (breastbone).
Question 9: What is the proper technique for giving rescue breaths? Answer: Give breaths that make the chest rise.
Question 10: What is the importance of calling emergency medical services (EMS) early? Answer: To ensure timely and professional medical care.
Question 11: How do you assess responsiveness? Answer: Tap and shout.
Question 12: What should you do if an adult is choking and conscious? Answer: Perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver).
Question 13: What is the difference between an adult and a child in terms of BLS? Answer: Compression depth and technique differ. The ratio of compressions to breaths may also differ.
Question 14: How do you care for an infant who is choking and unconscious? Answer: Begin CPR, including chest compressions and rescue breaths.
Question 15: What are the signs of a heart attack? Answer: Chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea.
Question 16: What is the purpose of using an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)? Answer: To deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heart rhythm.
Question 17: What is the first thing to do before using an AED? Answer: Turn on the AED and follow the device's prompts.
Question 18: Can you use an AED on a person in water? Answer: No, remove the person from the water first.
Question 19: What is a common cause of cardiac arrest? Answer: Heart attack.
Question 20: What are some situations where BLS might be needed? Answer: Sudden cardiac arrest, drowning, choking, trauma.
Question 21: What is the importance of proper hand hygiene before and after BLS? Answer: To prevent the spread of infection.
Question 22: Should you continue CPR if the person starts breathing? Answer: Yes, until EMS arrives.
Question 23: What is the role of a bystander in a BLS situation? Answer: To call EMS, get the AED, and perform CPR if trained.
Question 24: Why is proper training important for BLS providers? Answer: To ensure consistent and effective life-saving techniques.
Question 25: What should you do if a person is injured but still breathing? Answer: Provide appropriate first aid and monitor their condition until help arrives.
Beyond the Exam: Staying Updated on BLS
The information provided here should be seen as a starting point. BLS techniques and guidelines are periodically updated to reflect advancements in medical knowledge. To ensure you're providing the best possible care, make sure to participate in regular refresher courses and stay informed about any changes in protocols. Staying updated is crucial for maintaining your BLS certification and providing confident, competent care. Remember to always consult official BLS training materials for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
