ACLS Complete Guide for Exam Preparation (2025/2026)
100 Questions and Answers with Key Concepts
Section 1: Basic Life Support (BLS) & High-Quality CPR
1. What is the recommended compression-to-ventilation ratio for adult CPR when two
rescuers are present?
o 15:2
o 30:1
o 30:2 ✓
o 15:1
2. What is the correct compression rate for high-quality CPR?
o 80-100 per minute
o 100-120 per minute ✓
o 120-140 per minute
o 60-80 per minute
3. What is the recommended depth of chest compressions for adults?
o At least 1 inch (2.5 cm)
o 1.5 inches (4 cm)
o At least 2 inches (5 cm) but not greater than 2.4 inches (6 cm) ✓
o 3 inches (7.5 cm)
4. How often should rescuers switch roles during CPR to prevent fatigue?
o Every 1 minute
o Every 2 minutes ✓
o Every 5 minutes
o Only when a rescuer requests a break
5. What is the first step in the BLS algorithm for an unresponsive adult?
, o Check for pulse
o Start chest compressions
o Ensure scene safety ✓
o Call for help
Section 2: Airway Management
6. What is the preferred initial method for airway management during CPR?
o Endotracheal intubation
o Laryngeal mask airway
o Bag-mask ventilation ✓
o Nasopharyngeal airway
7. How often should breaths be delivered during CPR with an advanced airway in place?
o Every 5-6 seconds
o Every 6 seconds ✓
o Every 10 seconds
o Synchronized with compressions
8. Which device provides the most reliable method for confirming proper endotracheal
tube placement?
o Chest rise visualization
o Auscultation of breath sounds
o Continuous waveform capnography ✓
o Pulse oximetry
Section 3: Defibrillation & Cardioversion
9. What is the recommended initial biphasic energy dose for defibrillation of ventricular
fibrillation?
o 50-100 J
o 120-200 J ✓
, o 300 J
o 360 J
10. What should be done immediately after a shock is delivered for VF/pulseless VT?
o Check pulse
o Give epinephrine
o Resume CPR immediately ✓
o Analyze rhythm
11. For synchronized cardioversion of unstable monomorphic VT with a pulse, what is the
recommended initial energy?
o 50 J
o 100 J
o 100 J monophasic or 120-200 J biphasic ✓
o 360 J
Section 4: Bradycardia Algorithm
12. A patient has a heart rate of 40 bpm with hypotension. What is the first-line
treatment?
o Atropine 0.5 mg IV
o Atropine 0.5 mg IV every 3-5 minutes up to 3 mg ✓
o Epinephrine infusion
o Immediate transcutaneous pacing
13. Which medication is recommended if atropine is ineffective for symptomatic
bradycardia?
o Amiodarone
o Lidocaine
o Dopamine or epinephrine infusion ✓
o Magnesium sulfate
Section 5: Tachycardia Algorithm