Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Practice Exam

What is the recommended assisted ventilation rate for patients in respiratory arrest with a perfusing rhythm?

1. 6 to 8 breaths per minute

2. 10 to 12 breaths per minute

3. 14 to 16 breaths per minute

4. 8 to 10 breaths per minute

The correct answer is: 10 to 12 breaths per minute

The recommended assisted ventilation rate for patients in respiratory arrest with a perfusing rhythm is 10 to 12 breaths per minute. This rate is aligned with current advanced life support guidelines, which emphasize the importance of providing adequate ventilation to ensure that oxygen is delivered to the body while avoiding complications that can arise from overly rapid ventilation or inadequate tidal volume. In the context of respiratory arrest, assisting ventilation at this rate helps maintain adequate oxygenation without causing excessive pressure and potentially compromising lung function. The guidelines support a methodical approach to ventilation, balancing the need for oxygen with the risk of hyperventilation, which can reduce cerebral perfusion. This is vital, as patients with a perfusing rhythm already have some cardiac function, and the primary goal in this scenario is to address the respiratory failure while monitoring the patient’s response closely. Maintaining an appropriate ventilation rate contributes to successful outcomes in advanced cardiovascular life support scenarios, ensuring that the patient's blood gas levels remain within anatomical physiological limits during a critical event.