Cardiac Arrest Initial Assessment

What is the primary focus during the initial patient assessment?

What should be applied without interrupting chest compressions?

What should be done if the patient has a shockable rhythm?

What is the recommended rate of chest compressions?

How often should the compressor be changed during manual compressions?

Why should compressions be delivered on a hard surface?

What should be minimized during chest compressions?

What should be done when there is an organized rhythm on the monitor and an increase in the ETCO2 level of 20 mm or more?

When should an automatic compression device (AutoPulse) be applied?

What should be done with the monitor or AED during chest compressions?

When should ventilation with a BVM start?

What is the purpose of using a carry-all or backboard?

Why should the patient be given 100% oxygen before placing an Advanced Airway?

When is a Supraglottic Airway contraindicated?

What should be done after a shock is delivered?

What is an example of a Supraglottic Airway?

Initial Patient Assessment

Check for responsiveness, breathing, and pulse
If the patient is unresponsive, determine presence or absence of a pulse
Start chest compressions and continue uninterrupted until the monitor or AD is ready to assess the rhythm

Chest Compressions

Emphasis is on continuous chest compressions with adequate rate and depth
PUSH HARD, PUSH FAST, ALLOW FULL CHEST RECOIL, and MINIMIZE INTERRUPTION OF COMPRESSIONS
Compress at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute
One adult cycle is 2 minutes of compressions
Perform 2 minutes of CPR between each rhythm check
Do not check for a pulse unless there is an organized rhythm on the monitor and there has been an increase in the ETCO2 level of 20 mm or more
Change the compressor (with manual compressions) after every 2 minutes of CPR
Compressions must be delivered on a hard surface
Minimize interruptions of chest compressions to less than 10 seconds

Ventilation

Once the Advanced Airway is in place, attach the CO2 sensor and ventilate once every 6 seconds (10-12 breaths per minute)
Do not interrupt compressions to ventilate
Monitor waveform capnography (CO2 levels)

Defibrillation

If patient has a shockable rhythm, immediately defibrillate
If defibrillated, resume compressions immediately after and manage according to the appropriate protocol(s)

Post-Resuscitation Care

If a pulse returns (ROSC), initiate post-resuscitation care
If no ROSC, refer to Death in the Field Protocol

This quiz assesses your knowledge of the initial steps to take when responding to a cardiac arrest patient. It covers the importance of continuous chest compressions and assessing cardiac rhythm.