ECC

American Heart Association

BLS for Healthcare Providers

Written Exams

Contents:
 Exam Memo
 Student Answer Sheet
 Version C Exam
 Version C Answer Key
 Version C Reference Sheet
 Version D Exam
 Version D Answer Key
 Version D Reference Sheet

January 12, 2012

© 2012 American Heart Association

2012 BLS for Healthcare Providers
Written Exam

Introduction The 2012 BLS for Healthcare Providers Course includes both skills tests and
a written exam. The written exam measures the mastery of cognitive skills.
The 2012 written exam must be used with the 2011 course materials, ie,
Student Manual, course video, and Instructor Manual.

Administering This closed-book written exam must be completed independently by each

the written student. To receive a course completion card, students must score at least
exam 84% on the written exam.

Remediation All students deserve remediation on topics in which they are not confident
and topics they have not mastered.

For guidance on remediation, refer to the Instructor Manual.

Copying and Written exams are secured items. BLS Training Centers may distribute BLS
distribution for Healthcare Providers exams only to BLS Instructors, BLS Training Center
Faculty, and BLS Regional Faculty members who are aligned with the
Training Center. Written exams may be copied as needed for conducting
courses. Training Centers may distribute exams in the original and complete
PDF format via email.

Exams may not be posted on Internet or Intranet sites accessible by persons

not authorized to receive the exams.

January 12, 2012

 ANSWER SHEET
BLS for Healthcare Providers
Written Exam

Name______________________________Date________________________Version_____

Question Answer

1. A B C D
2. A B C D
3. A B C D
4. A B C D
5. A B C D
6. A B C D
7. A B C D
8. A B C D
9. A B C D
10. A B C D
11. A B C D
12. A B C D
13. A B C D
14. A B C D
15. A B C D
16. A B C D
17. A B C D
18. A B C D
19. A B C D
20. A B C D
21. A B C D
22. A B C D
23. A B C D
24. A B C D
25. A B C D

© 2012 American Heart Association

ECC

American Heart Association

BLS for Healthcare Providers

Written Exam

Version C

January 12, 2012

© 2012 American Heart Association

BLS for Healthcare Providers Course
Version C

Please do not mark on this exam. Record the best answer on the separate answer sheet.

1. When should you initially ensure that the scene is safe?

A. After I activate the emergency response system

B. After an AED attached to the victim delivers the shock
C. As emergency medical services arrive on the scene
D. When I first see a potential victim

2. Which victim requires CPR?

A. A victim who is unresponsive with no normal breathing and no pulse

B. A victim who is unresponsive but is breathing adequately
C. A victim with a pulse who is having trouble breathing
D. A victim with chest pain and indigestion

3. What is the best way to open the airway of an unresponsive victim with no suspected neck
injury?

A. Use the tongue lift–finger sweep.

B. Use the head tilt–chin lift.
C. Use the head tilt only.
D. Use a mask.

4. What is the maximum amount of time you should take to check for a pulse?

A. 25 seconds
B. 20 seconds
C. 15 seconds
D. 10 seconds

5. Which of the following devices or techniques is not recommended for a single rescuer to
provide breaths during CPR?

A. Bag-mask device
B. Mouth-to-barrier device
C. Mouth-to-mask technique
D. Mouth-to-mouth technique

BLS for Healthcare Providers Written Exam Version C, January 12, 2012 2
© 2012 American Heart Association
6. What is the recommended depth of chest compressions for an adult victim?

A. At least 1 inch (2.5 cm)

B. At least 2 inches (5 cm)
C. At least 3 inches (7.5 cm)
D. At least 4 inches (10 cm)

7. What should you do when a child victim has a pulse of more than 60/min but is not breathing?

A. Give breaths and chest compressions.

B. Give breaths without chest compressions.
C. Give chest compressions without breaths.
D. Use the AED with child pads.

8. What is the compression-ventilation ratio for 1-rescuer adult CPR?

A. 5:1
B. 15:2
C. 20:2
D. 30:2

9. Why is it important to compress to the appropriate depth during CPR?

A. Adequate depth of compression is needed to create blood flow during compressions.

B. Adequate depth of compression is needed to create air flow into the lungs and adequate
oxygenation.
C. Adequate depth of compression is needed to prolong asystole.
D. Adequate dept of chest compression is needed to stimulate spontaneous respirations.

10. What is the recommended rate for performing chest compressions for victims of all ages?

A. At least 40 compressions per minute

B. At least 60 compressions per minute
C. At least 80 compressions per minute
D. At least 100 compressions per minute

11. Which of the following is recommended to minimize the risk of air entering the victim’s
stomach (gastric inflation) during bag-mask ventilation?

A. Give breaths as quickly as you can.

B. Give each breath over several seconds.
C. Give the largest breaths that you can.
D. Give a breath just until you see the chest rise.

BLS for Healthcare Providers Written Exam Version C, January 12, 2012 3
© 2012 American Heart Association
12. Which of the following statements is true about using an AED for a child less than 8 years of
age?

A. Adult pads may be used, but they should be cut in half before application.
B. Adult pads/dose may be used if pediatric pads/dose attenuator are not available.
C. Only 1 adult pad should be used.
D. Infant pads may be used if pediatric pads are not available.

13. What are the correct compression and ventilation rates for 2-rescuer CPR in the presence of
an advanced airway in an adult victim?

A. Compress at a rate of at least 100 per minute, with 1 breath every 6 to 8 seconds.
B. Compress at a rate of at least 60 per minute, with 1 breath every 6 to 8 seconds.
C. Compress at a rate of at least 100 per minute, with 2 breaths every 5 to 10 seconds.
D. Compress at a rate of at least 60 per minute, with 1 breath every 5 to 10 seconds.

14. During 2-rescuer CPR, one rescuer provides chest compressions. What is the role of the
second rescuer?

A. Count compressions aloud.

B. Check for a pulse during compressions.
C. Do nothing until the first rescuer needs relief.
D. Maintain an open airway and give breaths.

15. As soon as an AED becomes available, which of the following is the first step you should
perform to operate the AED?

A. Deliver 2 rescue breaths before using the AED.

B. Complete 5 cycles of chest compressions.
C. Place the AED pads on the chest.
D. Turn on the AED.

16. Where should you place your hands to perform chest compressions on an adult?

A. On the upper portion of the abdomen

B. In the center of the breastbone
C. On the lower half of the breastbone
D. On the upper half of the breastbone

17. What should you do after the AED delivers a shock?

A. Immediately check the carotid pulse for no more than 10 seconds.

B. Immediately restart CPR, beginning with chest compressions.
C. Wait for the AED to reanalyze the rhythm.
D. Provide 2 breaths to the victim.

BLS for Healthcare Providers Written Exam Version C, January 12, 2012 4
© 2012 American Heart Association
18. If a victim of foreign-body airway obstruction becomes unresponsive, after you send someone
to activate the emergency response system, what is the next recommended action?

A. Call the victim’s doctor.

B. Perform abdominal thrusts.
C. Perform blind finger sweeps.
D. Start CPR, beginning with compressions.

19. What is the compression-ventilation ratio for 2-rescuer child CPR?

A. 5:1
B. 15:2
C. 20:2
D. 30:2

20. What should you do when administering breaths by using a bag-mask device for a child who is
not breathing but does have a pulse?

A. Give breaths at a rate of 1 breath every 3 to 5 seconds.

B. Position the child on his or her stomach.
C. Squeeze the bag as often as possible.
D. Avoid performing a head tilt.

21. What is the recommended depth of compressions for an infant victim?

A. At least one fourth the depth of the chest, approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm)
B. At least one third the depth of the chest, approximately 1.5 inches (4 cm)
C. At least one half the depth of the chest, approximately 2 inches (5 cm)
D. At least two thirds the depth of the chest, approximately 3 inches (8 cm)

22. What should you observe when trying to determine if rescue breaths for an infant victim are
effective?

A. Visible rise of the stomach with each rescue breath

B. Visible rise of the chest with each rescue breath
C. Complete compression of the ventilation bag
D. Air leaking around the ventilation mask

23. What is the compression-ventilation ratio for 2-rescuer infant CPR?

A. 5:1
B. 15:2
C. 20:2
D. 30:2

BLS for Healthcare Providers Written Exam Version C, January 12, 2012 5
© 2012 American Heart Association
24. What is the preferred technique for providing chest compressions during 2-rescuer CPR for an
infant?

A. The 2 thumb–encircling hands technique

B. The 2-finger technique
C. The 1-hand technique
D. The 2-hand technique

25. What is the best action to relieve severe choking in a responsive infant?

A. Kneel behind the infant and perform abdominal thrusts (perform the Heimlich maneuver).
B. Give 2 breaths, repositioning the airway after each breath.
C. Begin cycles of 5 back slaps, followed by 5 chest thrusts.
D. Start CPR immediately.

BLS for Healthcare Providers Written Exam Version C, January 12, 2012 6
© 2012 American Heart Association
 2012 WRITTEN EXAM C
Answer Key
BLS for Healthcare Providers

Question Answer

1. A B C ●
2. ● B C D
3. A ● C D
4. A B C ●
5. ● B C D
6. A ● C D
7. A ● C D
8. A B C ●
9. ● B C D
10. A B C ●
11. A B C ●
12. A ● C D
13. ● B C D
14. A B C ●
15. A B C ●
16. A B ● D
17. A ● C D
18. A B C ●
19. A ● C D
20. ● B C D
21. A ● C D
22. A ● C D
23. A ● C D
24. ● B C D
25. A B ● D

January 12, 2012

© 2012 American Heart Association
 2012 WRITTEN EXAM C
Reference Sheet
BLS for Healthcare Providers

Page in BLS for

Healthcare
Providers Student
Question Manual Answer
1. 8 A B C ●
2. 9 ● B C D
3. 12 A ● C D
4. 9 A B C ●
5. 14 ● B C D
6. 10 A ● C D
7. 49 A ● C D
8. 8 A B C ●
9. 11 ● B C D
10. 2 A B C ●
11. 46 A B C ●
12. 42 A ● C D
13. 43 ● B C D
14. 15 A B C ●
15. 20 A B C ●
16. 10 A B ● D
17. 20 A ● C D
18. 53 A B C ●
19. 29 A ● C D
20. 49 ● B C D
21. 35 A ● C D
22. 40 A ● C D
23. 37 A ● C D
24. 37 ● B C D
25. 55 A B ● D
January 12, 2012
© 2012 American Heart Association
ECC

American Heart Association

BLS for Healthcare Providers

Written Exam

Version D

January 12, 2012

© 2012 American Heart Association

BLS for Healthcare Providers Course
Version D

Please do not mark on this exam. Record the best answer on the separate answer sheet.

1. Which victim requires CPR?

A. A victim who is unresponsive with no normal breathing and no pulse

B. A victim who is unresponsive but is breathing adequately
C. A victim with a pulse who is having trouble breathing
D. A victim with chest pain and indigestion

2. When is it appropriate to move an adult victim who needs CPR?

A. When help is more than 15 minutes away from the scene

B. When an adult victim is in a dangerous environment
C. To locate the AED when one is not available
D. As soon as the adult is found to be in arrest

3. High-quality CPR includes starting chest compressions within how many seconds after
recognition of cardiac arrest in victims of all ages?

A. 10 seconds
B. 15 seconds
C. 20 seconds
D. 30 seconds

4. Interruptions in chest compressions should be limited to how many seconds?

A. 10 seconds
B. 15 seconds
C. 20 seconds
D. 25 seconds

5. How can you tell when a rescue breath for an infant victim is effective?

A. The ventilation bag is completely compressed.

B. I can hear air leaking around the mask.
C. There is visible rise of the stomach.
D. There is visible rise of the chest.

BLS for Healthcare Providers Written Exam Version D, January 12, 2012 2
© 2012 American Heart Association
6. What is the BEST method of opening the airway of an unresponsive victim when you do not
suspect cervical spine injury?

A. Give abdominal thrusts and then sweep out the mouth.

B. Use a mask while giving breaths to the victim.
C. Use the tongue lift–finger sweep.
D. Use the head tilt–chin lift.

7. Which technique is not recommended for a single rescuer to provide breaths during CPR?

A. Bag-mask device
B. Mouth-to-barrier device
C. Mouth-to-mask technique
D. Mouth-to-mouth technique

8. What is likely to cause air to enter the victim’s stomach (gastric inflation) during bag-mask
ventilation?

A. The rescuer does not make a good seal between the face and the mask.
B. The volume of breaths given is sufficient to see the chest rise.
C. Breaths are given too quickly or with too much force.
D. Each breath is given over 1 second.

9. What are the correct compression and ventilation rates for 2-rescuer CPR in the presence of an
advanced airway in an adult victim?

A. Compress at a rate of at least 100 per minute, with 1 breath every 6 to 8 seconds.
B. Compress at a rate of at least 60 per minute, with 1 breath every 6 to 8 seconds.
C. Compress at a rate of at least 100 per minute, with 2 breaths every 5 to 10 seconds.
D. Compress at a rate of at least 60 per minute, with 1 breath every 5 to 10 seconds.

10. How does complete chest recoil contribute to effective CPR?

A. Reduces rescuer fatigue

B. Reduces the risk of rib fractures
C. Increases the rate of chest compressions
D. Allows the heart to refill with blood between compressions

11. What is the recommended compression-ventilation ratio for 2-rescuer adult CPR?

A. 5:1
B. 15:2
C. 20:2
D. 30:2

BLS for Healthcare Providers Written Exam Version D, January 12, 2012 3
© 2012 American Heart Association
12. To reduce fatigue during CPR, how often should compressors switch roles?

A. After every cycle of compressions and breaths

B. After every 3 cycles of compressions and breaths
C. After every 5 cycles of compressions and breaths
D. After every 8 cycles of compressions and breaths

13. What is the recommended compression rate for performing CPR on a victim of any age?

A. About 60 per minute

B. About 80 per minute
C. At least 100 per minute
D. At least 120 per minute

14. During 2-rescuer CPR, one rescuer will provide chest compressions. What is the role of the
second rescuer?

A. Count compressions aloud.

B. Check for a pulse during compressions.
C. Do nothing until the first rescuer needs relief.
D. Maintain an open airway and give breaths.

15. Why are chest compressions important?

A. They pump blood to the rest of the body.

B. They increase air flow into the lungs.
C. They prolong asystole.
D. They stimulate spontaneous ventilation.

16. What is the first step to perform once the AED arrives on the scene?

A. Turn on the AED.

B. Place the AED pads on the chest.
C. Complete 5 cycles of chest compressions.
D. Deliver 2 rescue breaths before using the AED.

17. When should you deliver a shock from the AED?

A. After checking for a carotid pulse

B. After the placement of an advanced airway
C. After completing 2 cycles of compression and breaths
D. After the AED advises a shock, charges, states a “clear the victim” message, and prompts me to
push the SHOCK button

BLS for Healthcare Providers Written Exam Version D, January 12, 2012 4
© 2012 American Heart Association
18. What is the best way to relieve severe choking in a responsive adult?

A. Start CPR immediately.

B. Perform abdominal thrusts.
C. Give 5 back slaps, followed by 2 breaths.
D. Give 2 breaths, repositioning the airway after each breath.

19. What is the correct depth of chest compressions for a child victim?

A. At least one fourth the depth of the chest, approximately 1.5 inch (4 cm)
B. At least one third the depth of the chest, approximately 2 inches (5 cm)
C. At least two thirds the depth of the chest, approximately 4 inches (10 cm)
D. At least three fourths the depth of the chest, approximately 4.5 inches (12 cm)

20. What is the recommended compression-ventilation ratio for 2-rescuer child CPR?

A. 5:1
B. 15:2
C. 20:2
D. 30:2

21. What size AED pads should be used for a child less than 8 years of age?

A. Infant pads may be used if pediatric pads are not available.

B. Adult pads may be used, but they should be cut in half before application.
C. Only 1 adult pad should be used.
D. Adult pads/dose may be used if pediatric pads/dose attenuator are not available.

22. A choking adult becomes unresponsive while you are doing abdominal thrusts for severe
choking. What should you do next?

A. Perform abdominal thrusts.

B. Begin CPR.
C. Activate the emergency response system.
D. Administer back slaps.

23. What is the recommended compression-ventilation ratio for 1-rescuer infant CPR?

A. 5:1
B. 15:2
C. 20:2
D. 30:2

BLS for Healthcare Providers Written Exam Version D, January 12, 2012 5
© 2012 American Heart Association
24. What is the preferred technique for providing chest compressions during 2-rescuer CPR for an
infant?

A. The 1-hand technique

B. The 2-hand technique
C. The 2-finger technique
D. The 2 thumb–encircling hands technique

25. Where is the brachial pulse located?

A. On the side of the neck, near the trachea

B. On the inside of the upper leg, near the groin
C. On the outside of the lower arm, near the wrist
D. On the inside of the upper arm, between the elbow and the shoulder

BLS for Healthcare Providers Written Exam Version D, January 12, 2012 6
© 2012 American Heart Association
 2012 WRITTEN EXAM D
Answer Key
BLS for Healthcare Providers

Question Answer

1. ● B C D
2. A ● C D
3. ● B C D
4. ● B C D
5. A B C ●
6. A B C ●
7. ● B C D
8. A B ● D
9. ● B C D
10. A B C ●
11. A B C ●
12. A B ● D
13. A B ● D
14. A B C ●
15. ● B C D
16. ● B C D
17. A B C ●
18. A ● C D
19. A ● C D
20. A ● C D
21. A B C ●
22. A B ● D
23. A B C ●
24. A B C ●
25. A B C ●
January 12, 2012
© 2012 American Heart Association
 2012 WRITTEN EXAM D
Reference Sheet
BLS for Healthcare Providers

Page in BLS for

Healthcare
Providers Student
Question Manual Answer
1. 9 ● B C D
2. 11 A ● C D
3. 2 ● B C D
4. 15 ● B C D
5. 40 A B C ●
6. 12 A B C ●
7. 14 ● B C D
8. 46 A B ● D
9. 43 ● B C D
10. 10 A B C ●
11. 15 A B C ●
12. 16 A B ● D
13. 2 A B ● D
14. 15 A B C ●
15. 11 ● B C D
16. 20 ● B C D
17. 20 A B C ●
18. 52 A ● C D
19. 29 A ● C D
20. 29 A ● C D
21. 42 A B C ●
22. 53 A B ● D
23. 35 A B C ●
24. 37 A B C ●
25. 35 A B C ●
January 12, 2012
© 2012 American Heart Association