ACLS True/False Nuggets: Respiratory Arrest
Understanding what causes respiratory arrest as well as how to treat it is important for anyone looking to obtain ACLS certification. Respiratory arrest occurs when heart muscle contraction is intact but the lungs fail to function properly leading to a cessation of breathing called apnea. This life-threatening condition requires immediate medical attention.
By answering the following true/false questions you can test your knowledge about the symptoms and treatment for people in respiratory arrest.
1. Cardiac arrest almost always follows respiratory arrest unless respiratory function is rapidly restored.
A. True
B. False
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2. Respiratory arrest patients are unconscious or will soon lose consciousness.
A. True
B. False
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3. Current guidelines recommend using a bag mask to provide breaths at a rate of 20 to 24 breaths per minute for adult patients in respiratory arrest.
A. True
B. False
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4. If a patient fails to spontaneously start breathing on their own as a result of positive pressure ventilation with a bag-mask, they will require intubation.
A. True
B. False
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5. Common causes of respiratory arrest include: airway obstruction, stroke, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug overdose.
A. True
B. False
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For more information on Respiratory Arrest, check the ACLS Provider Manual. You can purchase the manual here or receive it as part of your tuition when you register for ACLS certification.