Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Practice Exam

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Prepare for your Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Exam with our comprehensive quiz featuring multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Sharpen your skills and boost your confidence for success!

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What is the appropriate rate of chest compressions for an adult in cardiac arrest?

80/min
100/min
120/min
150/min

The correct answer is: 100/min

The appropriate rate of chest compressions for an adult in cardiac arrest is 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Selecting the rate of 100 compressions per minute reflects the most widely accepted guideline among resuscitation organizations, including the American Heart Association. This rate ensures effective blood circulation during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), maximizing the chance of survival by promoting adequate perfusion to vital organs. Compressing at this rate is crucial because compressions that are too slow may not generate sufficient blood flow, while excessive rates can lead to ineffective compressions due to poor technique and might also fatigue the rescuer more quickly. The established target range allows providers to deliver high-quality CPR, which emphasizes the importance of both the rate and depth of compressions in achieving successful resuscitation outcomes.