Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The ECG, or electrocardiogram, is a critical tool during CPR as it allows healthcare providers to monitor the heart's electrical activity, specifically evaluating heart rate and rhythm. This information is vital because during cardiac arrest, the heart can exhibit various arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation or asystole, which require specific treatment interventions.

By analyzing the ECG, responders can determine the presence or absence of a pulse, guide the administration of drugs like epinephrine, and decide when to perform defibrillation if a shockable rhythm is identified. In essence, the ECG provides real-time insight into the heart's condition during an emergency, enabling responders to make informed decisions on the appropriate course of action.

In contrast, while oxygen saturation, blood pressure changes, and skin temperature are important physiological parameters, they do not provide the same direct information about the heart's rhythm and rate, which are critical during CPR. Therefore, the ECG's primary role is focused on assessing the cardiac status, making it essential in effective resuscitation efforts.