Board of Legal SpecializationPractice Exam

When assessing a child, is it acceptable to check for breathing and pulse simultaneously?

1. Yes, for no more than 10 seconds

2. No, they should be checked separately

3. Yes, but only if the child is responsive

4. No, only check for the pulse

The correct answer is: Yes, for no more than 10 seconds

When assessing a child in an emergency situation, checking for breathing and pulse at the same time can indeed be acceptable, and doing so for no more than 10 seconds is appropriate. This approach allows the rescuer to quickly gather critical information about the child's condition without spending too much time in a potentially dangerous situation. The rationale behind this method is that in a life-threatening scenario, rapid assessment is crucial for determining the next steps. By checking both breathing and pulse simultaneously, the rescuer can make a swift decision on whether immediate intervention is needed, such as CPR, rather than prolonging the assessment. The time limit of 10 seconds helps to ensure that the assessment is both thorough and efficient, minimizing the risk of delay in delivering potentially life-saving care. This practice aligns with emergency response protocols that emphasize prompt and decisive action in critical situations.