National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Which component is essential when performing effective CPR on a pediatric patient?

1. Continuous chest compressions without breathing

2. Using both hands to compress the chest

3. Starting with abdominal thrusts

4. Calling for emergency help after starting CPR

The correct answer is: Continuous chest compressions without breathing

Effective CPR on a pediatric patient primarily emphasizes the importance of continuous chest compressions without interrupting for breaths, particularly in an emergency situation where immediate circulation support is critical. For children, high-quality chest compressions can generate adequate blood flow to vital organs, and the focus on compressions aligns with current CPR guidelines that prioritize minimizing interruptions in chest compressions to maintain blood circulation. Infants and young children may not respond to rescuer breaths as effectively as adults because their physiology requires different approaches. Continuous chets compressions help mitigate the risk of delay in blood flow during ventricular fibrillation or cardiac arrest situations. This is crucial for maintaining life and giving the patient the best chance for a positive outcome. The other approaches outlined, such as using both hands for compressions or starting with abdominal thrusts, do not align with best practices in pediatric CPR, as they could lead to ineffective compression technique or inappropriate responses for the child's needs. Calling for emergency help after starting CPR is also essential, but the immediate application of quality compressions is vital for sustaining life and ensures that interventions are timely.