BLS Certification Exam 2025 –
Verified Questions with AHA
Updated Guidelines & Detailed
Rationales | A+ Graded
1. What is the first step a rescuer should take when approaching a potential BLS
victim?
A. Check for a pulse
B. Ensure scene safety
C. Begin chest compressions
D. Activate the emergency response system
Answer: B
Rationale: The 2025 AHA Guidelines emphasize ensuring scene safety as the first step in
BLS to protect the rescuer and victim from hazards, allowing for safe assessment and
intervention.
2. What is the recommended compression-to-ventilation ratio for single-rescuer adult
CPR?
A. 15:2
B. 30:2
C. 20:2
D. 30:1
Answer: B
Rationale: The 2025 AHA Guidelines specify a 30:2 compression-to-ventilation ratio for
single-rescuer adult CPR to balance circulation and oxygenation effectively.
3. What is the recommended chest compression rate for adults during CPR?
A. 80–100 per minute
B. 100–120 per minute
C. 120–140 per minute
D. 140–160 per minute
Answer: B
Rationale: The 2025 AHA Guidelines recommend a compression rate of 100–120 per
minute to optimize blood flow and align with effective cardiac output.
4. What is the appropriate chest compression depth for an adult victim?
A. 1 inch
B. At least 2 inches but not more than 2.4 inches
C. 3 inches
D. 4 inches
Answer: B
Rationale: Per the 2025 AHA Guidelines, adult chest compressions should be at least 2
inches but not exceed 2.4 inches to ensure effective circulation without causing injury.
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5. Where should chest compressions be performed on an adult?
A. Upper half of the sternum
B. Center of the chest, between the nipples
C. Lower half of the sternum
D. Left side of the chest
Answer: B
Rationale: The 2025 AHA Guidelines specify the center of the chest, between the
nipples, for optimal compression of the heart.
6. What is the first action after confirming an unresponsive adult has no pulse?
A. Provide rescue breaths
B. Begin chest compressions
C. Attach an AED
D. Check for breathing
Answer: B
Rationale: The 2025 AHA Guidelines prioritize immediate chest compressions after
confirming no pulse to restore circulation in cardiac arrest.
7. When should an AED be used for an adult in cardiac arrest?
A. After 5 minutes of CPR
B. As soon as it is available
C. After 2 rescue breaths
D. After checking the pulse for 10 seconds
Answer: B
Rationale: The 2025 AHA Guidelines recommend using an AED as soon as it is available
to analyze and potentially deliver a shock for a shockable rhythm.
8. What should a rescuer do after an AED delivers a shock?
A. Check the pulse for 10 seconds
B. Immediately resume CPR, starting with compressions
C. Provide 2 rescue breaths
D. Wait for the AED to reanalyze
Answer: B
Rationale: The 2025 AHA Guidelines instruct rescuers to resume CPR immediately after
a shock to minimize interruptions and restore circulation.
9. How long should a pulse check take during a BLS assessment?
A. 5–10 seconds
B. 10–15 seconds
C. 15–20 seconds
D. 20–25 seconds
Answer: A
Rationale: The 2025 AHA Guidelines limit pulse checks to 5–10 seconds to minimize
delays in initiating CPR.
10. Which victim requires CPR according to the 2025 AHA Guidelines?
A. A victim with a pulse but difficulty breathing
B. A victim who is unresponsive with no normal breathing and no pulse
C. A victim with chest pain and a pulse
D. A victim who is unresponsive but breathing adequately
Answer: B
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