BLS, CPR, First Aid & Cardiac Emergency
Practice Test with Answers
Description:
Get ready to ace your EXSS 288 final with this completely updated 2026 study guide—packed
with 40+ realistic practice questions covering everything from BLS algorithms and CPR
depth/rate to first aid for choking, anaphylaxis, stroke, and cardiac emergencies. Each
question includes detailed answer explanations aligned with the latest AHA & Red Cross
guidelines, so you’re not just memorizing—you’re understanding. Whether you’re preparing for
your certification or need a reliable test bank for EXSS 288, this guide breaks
down respiratory distress, AED use, pediatric CPR, opioid response, and legal
considerations in a clear, scenario-based format.
Stop stressing—start mastering. **Download your free exam-ready study guide now and walk into
test day with confidence!
, EXSS 288 Final Exam Guide 2026: BLS, CPR & First Aid Test
Questions & Answers
Section 1: Respiratory and Breathing Emergencies
1. If an individual is deprived of oxygen for a period of 4 to 6 minutes, what is the most probable
physiological outcome?
a) Full neurological recovery is expected
b) Irreversible brain damage is certain
c) The onset of brain injury becomes possible
d) No significant physiological changes occur
Answer: c) The onset of brain injury becomes possible
Explanation: The brain is highly sensitive to oxygen deprivation. Within the 4-6 minute window
without oxygen, cells begin to die, making the possibility of brain damage a significant concern,
necessitating immediate intervention.
2. Which of the following accurately defines the two primary classifications of breathing
emergencies?
a) Hyperventilation and Hypoventilation
b) Respiratory Distress and Respiratory Arrest
c) Anatomical Obstruction and Mechanical Obstruction
d) Bronchitis and Emphysema
Answer: b) Respiratory Distress and Respiratory Arrest
Explanation: Respiratory distress refers to difficulty in breathing where the respiratory system is
still functioning, while respiratory arrest is the complete cessation of breathing. Both are critical,
life-threatening conditions requiring urgent medical attention.
, 3. A patient is experiencing tightness in the chest, audible wheezing upon exhalation, and difficulty
speaking in full sentences. These are most characteristic signs of which condition?
a) Hyperventilation
b) Anaphylaxis
c) Asthma
d) Vocal Cord Dysfunction
Answer: c) Asthma
Explanation: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways. Exposure to a trigger
causes bronchospasm (tightening of airway muscles) and inflammation, leading to symptoms
like wheezing (especially on exhalation), chest tightness, and shortness of breath, which can
impair speech.
4. For a conscious adult victim who is choking and cannot cough, speak, or breathe, what is the
correct initial sequence of care according to current guidelines?
a) Begin abdominal thrusts immediately
b) Encourage coughing until the object is expelled
c) Deliver 5 back blows followed by 5 abdominal thrusts
d) Perform a blind finger sweep to locate the obstruction
Answer: c) Deliver 5 back blows followed by 5 abdominal thrusts
Explanation: For a conscious choking adult, the recommended first aid is to perform cycles of 5
back blows between the shoulder blades, followed by 5 abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver).
This sequence uses force and pressure changes to dislodge the foreign object from the airway.
5. When providing rescue breaths to an unresponsive adult victim who is not breathing but has a
pulse, what is the correct ventilation rate?
a) 1 breath every 3 seconds
b) 1 breath every 5 seconds
c) 2 breaths every 10 seconds
d) 1 breath every 10 seconds