Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

If a patient is unresponsive with a pulse, what should you do?

1. Administer IV medication immediately

2. Begin chest compressions

3. Perform 2 quick rescue breaths followed by 10-12 breaths every minute

4. Apply ice packs to the forehead

The correct answer is: Perform 2 quick rescue breaths followed by 10-12 breaths every minute

If a patient is unresponsive but still has a pulse, the primary concern is to ensure that their airway is clear and that they are receiving adequate oxygenation. In this scenario, providing rescue breaths is critical because the patient may not be able to breathe on their own effectively due to their unresponsive state. Providing two quick rescue breaths is appropriate to establish ventilation, followed by a consistent respiratory rate of 10-12 breaths per minute. This method helps to ensure that oxygen is delivered to the lungs and maintained in the bloodstream, which is vital for cellular metabolism and organ function. The other options do not effectively address the immediate need for ventilation and oxygenation in an unresponsive patient with a pulse. Administering IV medication may not be appropriate without a specific indication and assessment. Chest compressions are not warranted since the patient has a pulse, indicating that the heart is still beating. Applying ice packs does not contribute to addressing the patient's breathing issue or overall state of unresponsiveness.