Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

What is the correct treatment for someone undergoing asphyxial cardiac arrest?

1. Immediate defibrillation

2. Administering antibiotics

3. Emergency surgery

4. 5 cycles of CPR prior to retrieving the AED or emergency response system

The correct answer is: 5 cycles of CPR prior to retrieving the AED or emergency response system

The correct treatment for someone experiencing asphyxial cardiac arrest involves performing CPR before calling for advanced help or retrieving an AED. Asphyxial cardiac arrest typically results from a lack of oxygen, rather than a primary cardiac issue, which distinguishes it from other types of cardiac arrest. In such cases, the priority is to establish effective oxygenation and circulation, which is achieved through high-quality CPR. The guideline suggests performing about five cycles of CPR, which consists of compressions and breaths, before switching to advanced life support measures or using an AED. This ensures that blood flow is maintained to vital organs as much as possible, increasing the chances of survival and recovery. Immediate defibrillation is not the first step for asphyxial cardiac arrest, as it is typically used for shockable rhythms resulting from a primary cardiac issue. Administering antibiotics would not address the immediate needs of oxygen delivery and circulation in this emergency situation. Emergency surgery may be appropriate in certain cases of trauma but is not the standard initial approach for asphyxial cardiac arrest.