Basic Life Support (BLS) Renewal Practice Exam

The role of a second rescuer during CPR is crucial in ensuring that the victim receives effective and continuous care. Assisting with rescue breaths and switching roles as needed allows for a team approach, which minimizes fatigue and maintains the quality of care. During CPR, chest compressions and rescue breaths must be coordinated effectively.

The first rescuer typically manages chest compressions, which are physically demanding, while the second rescuer can provide rescue breaths. After a certain number of cycles, they can switch roles to avoid tiring out any one individual and to ensure that the quality of compressions and ventilation remains high. This teamwork enhances the effectiveness of resuscitation efforts and is aligned with the guidelines established for performing high-quality CPR.

Other options, while they describe actions that might be important in other scenarios, do not fulfill the primary role of a second rescuer during CPR. Effective communication and the ability to share physical responsibilities in the immediate care of the patient are central to successful resuscitation efforts.