Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Practice Exam

What should be done to minimize interruptions in chest compressions during CPR?

1. Continue CPR while the defibrillator is charging

2. Stop compressions until the defibrillator is ready

3. Use a bag-mask device continuously

4. Have a secondary provider prepare the defibrillator

The correct answer is: Continue CPR while the defibrillator is charging

Minimizing interruptions in chest compressions during CPR is vital for maintaining coronary perfusion pressure and improving outcomes in cardiac arrest situations. Continuing CPR while the defibrillator is charging allows compressions to remain continuous, ensuring that blood is still being circulated throughout the body and keeping vital organs, especially the brain, supplied with oxygen. When compressions are paused, even for brief moments, there is a risk of decreased effectiveness in the resuscitation efforts. While it is important for the defibrillator to be ready for use, the focus should remain on high-quality chest compressions as long as there are no immediate indications to stop, such as when a shock is ultimately delivered. This aligns with current guidelines emphasizing the need for minimal interruptions during resuscitation efforts. Communication and teamwork are also critical in a resuscitation scenario, which is where a secondary provider may help prepare the defibrillator alongside ongoing compressions, though the act of stopping chest compressions for this preparation would not be advisable. Thus, it is imperative to keep compressions going while the other steps in advanced cardiac life support are being put into action.