– Questions
Welcome to this comprehensive ACLS Provider Certification Exam
preparation guide. This guide contains practice questions covering
Version A and Version B of the exam, based on the 2025 AHA Guidelines
for Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support. Each question includes the
correct answer and a detailed rationale to support your exam preparation.
EXAM OVERVIEW
Exam Detail Information
Issuing Authority American Heart Association (AHA)
Exam Type Provider Certification
Passing Score 84%
Course Length Approximately 10-12 hours (classroom) or online
Certification Validity 2 years
Renewal Every 2 years
KEY UPDATES FOR 2025
,Update Details
CPR Quality Emphasis on high-quality CPR with feedback devices
Airway Management Supraglottic airways as primary airway device
Post-Cardiac Arrest Care Targeted temperature management (TTM) 32-36°C
Opioid-Associated Emergencies Naloxone administration and ventilations
Team Dynamics Emphasis on closed-loop communication
VERSION A – QUESTIONS 1–50
Question 1
During CPR, a team member is asked to state the compression rate.
What is the correct rate for adult CPR?
A. 80-100 compressions per minute
B. 100-120 compressions per minute
C. 120-140 compressions per minute
D. 60-80 compressions per minute
Answer: B. 100-120 compressions per minute.
Rationale: The AHA recommends a compression rate of 100-120
compressions per minute for adult CPR. This rate is associated with improved
survival outcomes. Rates outside this range reduce the likelihood of return of
spontaneous circulation (ROSC).
,Question 2
What is the recommended depth of chest compressions for an adult
during CPR?
A. At least 1 inch (2.5 cm)
B. At least 2 inches (5 cm)
C. At least 3 inches (7.6 cm)
D. At least 4 inches (10 cm)
Answer: B. At least 2 inches (5 cm).
Rationale: The AHA recommends a compression depth of at least 2 inches (5
cm) but not more than 2.4 inches (6 cm) for adult CPR. Adequate depth
ensures sufficient blood flow to vital organs during cardiac arrest.
Question 3
What is the compression-to-ventilation ratio for single-rescuer adult
CPR?
A. 15:2
B. 30:2
C. 30:1
D. 15:1
Answer: B. 30:2.
Rationale: The AHA recommends a compression-to-ventilation ratio of 30:2
for single-rescuer adult CPR. This ratio provides adequate chest compressions
while providing necessary ventilations.
, Question 4
What is the recommended ventilation rate during adult CPR with an
advanced airway in place?
A. 6-8 breaths per minute
B. 8-10 breaths per minute
C. 10-12 breaths per minute
D. 12-15 breaths per minute
Answer: B. 8-10 breaths per minute.
Rationale: When an advanced airway is in place during adult CPR,
ventilations should be delivered at a rate of 8-10 breaths per minute (one
breath every 6-8 seconds). This rate ensures adequate oxygenation without
compromising compressions.
Question 5
What is the first step in the BLS assessment for an unresponsive adult?
A. Check for a pulse
B. Begin chest compressions
C. Check for breathing
D. Assess for responsiveness and activate the emergency response system
Answer: D. Assess for responsiveness and activate the emergency
response system.
Rationale: The first step in the BLS assessment is to assess for responsiveness
and activate the emergency response system. This should be done
simultaneously with checking for breathing and pulse.