ACLS MATERNAL CARDIAC ARREST Comprehensive Final Exam Review Q & A 2026 (Complete And Verified Study material) (21pages) LEARNEXAMS

1. A 32-year-old pregnant woman at 30 weeks gestation collapses and is unresponsive. What is the first step in assessing her condition? - A. Check for a pulse and begin CPR if absent. - B. Administer oxygen and monitor fetal heart rate. - C. Perform an immediate cesarean section. - D. Transport to the nearest hospital. Answer: A. Check for a pulse and begin CPR if absent. Rationale: Immediate assessment of pulse and initiation of CPR if absent is critical in maternal cardiac arrest to ensure circulation to both the mother and fetus. 2. During resuscitation of a pregnant patient, which modification is most important? - A. High-dose epinephrine administration. - B. Left lateral tilt to relieve aortocaval compression. - C. Double the standard dose of all resuscitation drugs. - D. Avoid defibrillation to protect the fetus. Answer: B. Left lateral tilt to relieve aortocaval compression. Rationale: The left lateral tilt helps alleviate aortocaval compression by the gravid uterus, which can improve venous return and cardiac output. 3. If a pregnant patient in cardiac arrest is brought to the emergency department, what is the recommended time frame for delivery if resuscitation is unsuccessful? - A. Immediately upon arrival. - B. Within 5 minutes of arrest. - C. After 20 minutes of resuscitative efforts. - D. Delivery is not recommended during resuscitation. Answer: B. Within 5 minutes of arrest. Rationale: Perimortem cesarean delivery within 5 minutes of maternal cardiac arrest can improve maternal resuscitation chances and fetal survival. Question: Which of the following physiological changes occurs during pregnancy that affects the resuscitation of a mother during cardiac arrest? A) Decreased maternal blood volume B) Increased oxygen consumption