First Aid CPR AED Certification Exam Prep | 200+ Practice Questions with
Verified Answers and Detailed Rationales | Emergency Response
Procedures, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Techniques,
Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Use, Choking Response, Bleeding
Control, Shock Management, and Basic Life Support Safety Guidelines
Question 1: What is the first step you should take when approaching a potential
emergency scene?
A. Begin chest compressions immediately
B. Check the victim's pulse
C. Ensure scene safety for yourself and others
D. Call 911 before assessing the situation
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Ensure scene safety for yourself and others
RATIONALE: Scene safety is the foundational step in any emergency response. Before
providing care, you must ensure that you, the victim, and bystanders are not at risk from
hazards such as traffic, fire, electrical wires, or violence. Only after confirming the
scene is safe should you proceed with assessment and care.
Question 2: When performing adult CPR, what is the recommended compression-
to-ventilation ratio for a single rescuer?
A. 15:2
B. 30:2
C. 5:1
D. 20:2
CORRECT ANSWER: B. 30:2
RATIONALE: According to current AHA and Red Cross guidelines, the recommended
compression-to-ventilation ratio for adult CPR performed by a single rescuer is 30
compressions to 2 ventilations. This ratio optimizes blood flow and oxygenation while
minimizing interruptions in chest compressions.
Question 3: Which of the following is the correct hand placement for adult chest
compressions?
A. On the lower half of the sternum
B. On the upper third of the sternum
C. On the left side of the chest over the heart
D. On the abdomen just below the ribcage
CORRECT ANSWER: A. On the lower half of the sternum
RATIONALE: Proper hand placement for adult chest compressions is on the center of
the chest, on the lower half of the sternum (breastbone). This location allows effective
compression of the heart between the sternum and spine, maximizing blood circulation
during CPR.
,Question 4: What is the recommended depth for adult chest compressions during
CPR?
A. At least 1 inch (2.5 cm)
B. At least 2 inches (5 cm) but no more than 2.4 inches (6 cm)
C. At least 3 inches (7.5 cm)
D. As deep as possible
CORRECT ANSWER: B. At least 2 inches (5 cm) but no more than 2.4 inches (6 cm)
RATIONALE: Current guidelines specify that adult chest compressions should be at
least 2 inches (5 cm) deep but not exceed 2.4 inches (6 cm) to ensure adequate cardiac
output while minimizing the risk of rib fractures or internal injury.
Question 5: What is the appropriate compression rate for high-quality CPR in
adults, children, and infants?
A. 60-80 compressions per minute
B. 80-100 compressions per minute
C. 100-120 compressions per minute
D. 120-140 compressions per minute
CORRECT ANSWER: C. 100-120 compressions per minute
RATIONALE: High-quality CPR requires a compression rate of 100-120 compressions
per minute for all age groups. This rate balances adequate blood flow with sufficient
time for chest recoil, which is essential for venous return to the heart.
Question 6: When using an AED, what should you do immediately after the device
analyzes the heart rhythm?
A. Begin chest compressions
B. Deliver a shock if advised by the AED
C. Check the victim's pulse
D. Provide rescue breaths
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Deliver a shock if advised by the AED
RATIONALE: After the AED analyzes the heart rhythm, it will advise whether a shock is
needed. If a shock is advised, ensure no one is touching the victim and press the shock
button. If no shock is advised, immediately resume CPR starting with chest
compressions.
Question 7: What is the primary purpose of an Automated External Defibrillator
(AED)?
A. To monitor blood pressure during cardiac arrest
B. To analyze heart rhythm and deliver an electrical shock if needed
C. To provide oxygen to the victim
D. To assist with rescue breathing
,CORRECT ANSWER: B. To analyze heart rhythm and deliver an electrical shock if
needed
RATIONALE: An AED is designed to analyze the victim's heart rhythm and, if a shockable
rhythm (such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia) is detected,
deliver an electrical shock to help restore a normal heart rhythm.
Question 8: Before applying AED pads to a victim, what important step must be
taken?
A. Remove all clothing from the victim's torso
B. Ensure the victim's chest is dry and free of medication patches
C. Shave the victim's chest hair
D. Apply conductive gel to the pads
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Ensure the victim's chest is dry and free of medication
patches
RATIONALE: Before applying AED pads, the victim's chest must be dry to ensure proper
adhesion and conductivity. Any medication patches should be removed with a gloved
hand and the area wiped clean, as patches can interfere with pad adhesion and
potentially cause burns.
Question 9: For an adult victim, where should the AED pads be placed?
A. One pad on the upper right chest and one on the lower left side
B. Both pads on the front of the chest
C. One pad on the back and one on the front
D. Both pads on the left side of the chest
CORRECT ANSWER: A. One pad on the upper right chest and one on the lower left
side
RATIONALE: Standard adult AED pad placement is one pad on the upper right chest
(below the collarbone) and the other on the lower left side of the chest (mid-axillary
line). This positioning allows the electrical current to pass through the heart effectively.
Question 10: If a victim is lying in water, what should you do before using an AED?
A. Proceed with AED use immediately
B. Move the victim to a dry area and dry the chest before applying pads
C. Use the AED while the victim is still in water
D. Wait for emergency medical services to arrive
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Move the victim to a dry area and dry the chest before
applying pads
RATIONALE: Water conducts electricity and poses a serious shock hazard to rescuers
and bystanders. Before using an AED, move the victim to a dry area, dry the chest
thoroughly, and ensure no standing water is present around the victim or rescuers.
, Question 11: What is the correct technique for performing chest compressions on
an infant?
A. Use two hands on the center of the chest
B. Use the heel of one hand on the sternum
C. Use two thumbs encircling the chest or two fingers on the sternum
D. Use one finger on the sternum
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Use two thumbs encircling the chest or two fingers on the
sternum
RATIONALE: For infant CPR, rescuers may use the two-thumb encircling hands
technique (preferred for two-rescuer CPR) or the two-finger technique (for single-
rescuer CPR). Both methods compress the sternum approximately one-third the depth
of the chest (about 1.5 inches).
Question 12: When performing CPR on a child, what is the recommended
compression depth?
A. At least one-third the depth of the chest, about 1.5 inches (4 cm)
B. At least one-third the depth of the chest, about 2 inches (5 cm)
C. At least 2.5 inches (6 cm)
D. As deep as possible
CORRECT ANSWER: B. At least one-third the depth of the chest, about 2 inches (5
cm)
RATIONALE: For children (ages 1 to puberty), compress the chest at least one-third its
depth, approximately 2 inches (5 cm). This depth ensures adequate cardiac
compression while minimizing injury risk.
Question 13: What is the appropriate action if you are alone and witness a child or
infant suddenly collapse?
A. Call 911 first, then begin CPR
B. Begin CPR immediately for 2 minutes, then call 911
C. Wait to see if the child responds before taking action
D. Provide rescue breaths only
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Begin CPR immediately for 2 minutes, then call 911
RATIONALE: For witnessed sudden collapse of a child or infant when alone, begin CPR
immediately for about 2 minutes (5 cycles) before leaving to call 911 and retrieve an
AED. This prioritizes early CPR, which is critical for pediatric cardiac arrest often caused
by respiratory issues.
Question 14: What is the primary sign that indicates a person is choking and needs
immediate intervention?
Verified Answers and Detailed Rationales | Emergency Response
Procedures, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Techniques,
Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Use, Choking Response, Bleeding
Control, Shock Management, and Basic Life Support Safety Guidelines
Question 1: What is the first step you should take when approaching a potential
emergency scene?
A. Begin chest compressions immediately
B. Check the victim's pulse
C. Ensure scene safety for yourself and others
D. Call 911 before assessing the situation
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Ensure scene safety for yourself and others
RATIONALE: Scene safety is the foundational step in any emergency response. Before
providing care, you must ensure that you, the victim, and bystanders are not at risk from
hazards such as traffic, fire, electrical wires, or violence. Only after confirming the
scene is safe should you proceed with assessment and care.
Question 2: When performing adult CPR, what is the recommended compression-
to-ventilation ratio for a single rescuer?
A. 15:2
B. 30:2
C. 5:1
D. 20:2
CORRECT ANSWER: B. 30:2
RATIONALE: According to current AHA and Red Cross guidelines, the recommended
compression-to-ventilation ratio for adult CPR performed by a single rescuer is 30
compressions to 2 ventilations. This ratio optimizes blood flow and oxygenation while
minimizing interruptions in chest compressions.
Question 3: Which of the following is the correct hand placement for adult chest
compressions?
A. On the lower half of the sternum
B. On the upper third of the sternum
C. On the left side of the chest over the heart
D. On the abdomen just below the ribcage
CORRECT ANSWER: A. On the lower half of the sternum
RATIONALE: Proper hand placement for adult chest compressions is on the center of
the chest, on the lower half of the sternum (breastbone). This location allows effective
compression of the heart between the sternum and spine, maximizing blood circulation
during CPR.
,Question 4: What is the recommended depth for adult chest compressions during
CPR?
A. At least 1 inch (2.5 cm)
B. At least 2 inches (5 cm) but no more than 2.4 inches (6 cm)
C. At least 3 inches (7.5 cm)
D. As deep as possible
CORRECT ANSWER: B. At least 2 inches (5 cm) but no more than 2.4 inches (6 cm)
RATIONALE: Current guidelines specify that adult chest compressions should be at
least 2 inches (5 cm) deep but not exceed 2.4 inches (6 cm) to ensure adequate cardiac
output while minimizing the risk of rib fractures or internal injury.
Question 5: What is the appropriate compression rate for high-quality CPR in
adults, children, and infants?
A. 60-80 compressions per minute
B. 80-100 compressions per minute
C. 100-120 compressions per minute
D. 120-140 compressions per minute
CORRECT ANSWER: C. 100-120 compressions per minute
RATIONALE: High-quality CPR requires a compression rate of 100-120 compressions
per minute for all age groups. This rate balances adequate blood flow with sufficient
time for chest recoil, which is essential for venous return to the heart.
Question 6: When using an AED, what should you do immediately after the device
analyzes the heart rhythm?
A. Begin chest compressions
B. Deliver a shock if advised by the AED
C. Check the victim's pulse
D. Provide rescue breaths
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Deliver a shock if advised by the AED
RATIONALE: After the AED analyzes the heart rhythm, it will advise whether a shock is
needed. If a shock is advised, ensure no one is touching the victim and press the shock
button. If no shock is advised, immediately resume CPR starting with chest
compressions.
Question 7: What is the primary purpose of an Automated External Defibrillator
(AED)?
A. To monitor blood pressure during cardiac arrest
B. To analyze heart rhythm and deliver an electrical shock if needed
C. To provide oxygen to the victim
D. To assist with rescue breathing
,CORRECT ANSWER: B. To analyze heart rhythm and deliver an electrical shock if
needed
RATIONALE: An AED is designed to analyze the victim's heart rhythm and, if a shockable
rhythm (such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia) is detected,
deliver an electrical shock to help restore a normal heart rhythm.
Question 8: Before applying AED pads to a victim, what important step must be
taken?
A. Remove all clothing from the victim's torso
B. Ensure the victim's chest is dry and free of medication patches
C. Shave the victim's chest hair
D. Apply conductive gel to the pads
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Ensure the victim's chest is dry and free of medication
patches
RATIONALE: Before applying AED pads, the victim's chest must be dry to ensure proper
adhesion and conductivity. Any medication patches should be removed with a gloved
hand and the area wiped clean, as patches can interfere with pad adhesion and
potentially cause burns.
Question 9: For an adult victim, where should the AED pads be placed?
A. One pad on the upper right chest and one on the lower left side
B. Both pads on the front of the chest
C. One pad on the back and one on the front
D. Both pads on the left side of the chest
CORRECT ANSWER: A. One pad on the upper right chest and one on the lower left
side
RATIONALE: Standard adult AED pad placement is one pad on the upper right chest
(below the collarbone) and the other on the lower left side of the chest (mid-axillary
line). This positioning allows the electrical current to pass through the heart effectively.
Question 10: If a victim is lying in water, what should you do before using an AED?
A. Proceed with AED use immediately
B. Move the victim to a dry area and dry the chest before applying pads
C. Use the AED while the victim is still in water
D. Wait for emergency medical services to arrive
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Move the victim to a dry area and dry the chest before
applying pads
RATIONALE: Water conducts electricity and poses a serious shock hazard to rescuers
and bystanders. Before using an AED, move the victim to a dry area, dry the chest
thoroughly, and ensure no standing water is present around the victim or rescuers.
, Question 11: What is the correct technique for performing chest compressions on
an infant?
A. Use two hands on the center of the chest
B. Use the heel of one hand on the sternum
C. Use two thumbs encircling the chest or two fingers on the sternum
D. Use one finger on the sternum
CORRECT ANSWER: C. Use two thumbs encircling the chest or two fingers on the
sternum
RATIONALE: For infant CPR, rescuers may use the two-thumb encircling hands
technique (preferred for two-rescuer CPR) or the two-finger technique (for single-
rescuer CPR). Both methods compress the sternum approximately one-third the depth
of the chest (about 1.5 inches).
Question 12: When performing CPR on a child, what is the recommended
compression depth?
A. At least one-third the depth of the chest, about 1.5 inches (4 cm)
B. At least one-third the depth of the chest, about 2 inches (5 cm)
C. At least 2.5 inches (6 cm)
D. As deep as possible
CORRECT ANSWER: B. At least one-third the depth of the chest, about 2 inches (5
cm)
RATIONALE: For children (ages 1 to puberty), compress the chest at least one-third its
depth, approximately 2 inches (5 cm). This depth ensures adequate cardiac
compression while minimizing injury risk.
Question 13: What is the appropriate action if you are alone and witness a child or
infant suddenly collapse?
A. Call 911 first, then begin CPR
B. Begin CPR immediately for 2 minutes, then call 911
C. Wait to see if the child responds before taking action
D. Provide rescue breaths only
CORRECT ANSWER: B. Begin CPR immediately for 2 minutes, then call 911
RATIONALE: For witnessed sudden collapse of a child or infant when alone, begin CPR
immediately for about 2 minutes (5 cycles) before leaving to call 911 and retrieve an
AED. This prioritizes early CPR, which is critical for pediatric cardiac arrest often caused
by respiratory issues.
Question 14: What is the primary sign that indicates a person is choking and needs
immediate intervention?
