Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Practice Exam

Which condition is an indication to stop or withhold resuscitative efforts?

1. Patient age

2. Safety threat to providers

3. Length of cardiac arrest

4. Presence of bystanders

The correct answer is: Safety threat to providers

The indication to stop or withhold resuscitative efforts primarily revolves around the safety of the providers involved. If there is a safety threat to rescuers, such as environmental hazards, violent situations, or unstable conditions, it is essential to prioritize the safety of the healthcare team. If providers cannot ensure their safety, continuing resuscitation efforts may put them at unnecessary risk, which could hinder their ability to assist others in the future. The other scenarios—such as patient age, length of cardiac arrest, or the presence of bystanders—may influence decision-making in terms of prognosis or the dynamics of the situation, but they do not directly justify halting resuscitation efforts. For example, the age of the patient may affect the likelihood of successful resuscitation, and while prolonged cardiac arrest can decrease chances of survival, these factors do not inherently pose a safety risk to the rescuers. Presence of bystanders is often beneficial as they can assist, but again, it does not serve as a motive to stop resuscitation. Ensuring a safe environment for the provider is paramount, making this the correct basis for the decision to stop resuscitative actions.