ACLS EXAM QUESTIONS - Answer: Advanced Cardiac Life Support. Explanat...

ACLS EXAM QUESTIONS

• What does ACLS stand for?

Answer: Advanced Cardiac Life Support.

Explanation: ACLS is a set of clinical interventions for managing cardiac arrest, stroke, and life-threatening cardiovascular conditions.

• What is the primary goal of ACLS?

Answer: To restore and maintain circulation and breathing, minimize organ damage, and prevent sudden death.Explanation: The main objective is to stabilize the patient and prevent hypoxia.

• What are the initial steps in cardiac arrest management?

Answer: 1) Check for responsiveness and breathing. 2) Call for help and activate emergency response. 3) Start chest compressions. 4) Use a defibrillator if available.Explanation: Early CPR and defibrillation significantly increase survival rates.

• Which cardiac rhythms are shockable?

Answer: Ventricular fibrillation (VF) and pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT).Explanation: These rhythms indicate chaotic electrical activity, and defibrillation can restore a normal rhythm.

• What is the recommended compression rate for high-quality CPR?

Answer: 100–120 compressions per minute.

Explanation: This rate ensures adequate perfusion without compromising blood flow.

• What is the recommended compression depth during adult CPR?

Answer: At least 2 inches (5 cm), but no more than 2.4 inches (6 cm).

Explanation: Adequate depth ensures effective circulation, while excessive depth can cause injury. 1 / 2

• What is the appropriate ratio of compressions to breaths in CPR for an adult without an

advanced airway?

Answer: 30 compressions to 2 breaths.

Explanation: This ratio maximizes circulation while providing oxygenation.

• What medication is first-line treatment for asystole or pulseless electrical activity (PEA)?

Answer: Epinephrine 1 mg every 3–5 minutes.

Explanation: Epinephrine increases coronary and cerebral perfusion pressure during resuscitation.

• How often should a pulse check be performed during CPR?

Answer: Every 2 minutes, but only if there are signs of ROSC (Return of Spontaneous Circulation).

Explanation: Minimizing interruptions in compressions improves outcomes.

• What is the first step in managing a patient with symptomatic bradycardia?

Answer: Assess for signs of poor perfusion and prepare for possible atropine administration.Explanation: Bradycardia can reduce cardiac output, requiring pharmacologic or electrical intervention.

• What is the first-line drug for symptomatic bradycardia?

Answer: Atropine 1 mg every 3–5 minutes (maximum 3 mg).

Explanation: Atropine blocks the vagus nerve, increasing heart rate.

• What are the indications for transcutaneous pacing?

Answer: Unstable bradycardia unresponsive to atropine.

Explanation: If medications fail, pacing provides immediate electrical stimulation to maintain cardiac output.

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