Red Cross Lifeguard Practice Test

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Get ready for the Red Cross Lifeguard Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Ace your exam today!

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A 12-year-old child at a swim meet grabs their chest and begins to make wheezing noises. After obtaining consent to provide care, what should you do when the child does not have an inhaler nearby?

Give 5 back blows.
Summon more advanced medical personnel and place the victim into a position that helps breathing.
Tell the victim to use an inhaler borrowed from a bystander.
Wait 20 minutes to see if the breathing difficulty goes away.

The correct answer is: Summon more advanced medical personnel and place the victim into a position that helps breathing.

In this scenario, the child's symptoms indicate a possible asthma attack or severe respiratory distress, which can be life-threatening. After obtaining consent to provide care, the priority is to ensure the child receives appropriate assistance as quickly as possible. Summoning more advanced medical personnel is crucial because they may provide emergency treatments and interventions that a bystander or volunteer cannot. This action ensures that professional medical help is on the way, which is essential in a potentially serious situation like this. Moreover, placing the victim in a position that facilitates easier breathing, such as sitting up or leaning forward slightly, can help to alleviate some of the distress they are experiencing. This position takes pressure off the diaphragm and allows for better lung expansion, which may ease their breathing difficulties while waiting for advanced help to arrive. The other choices may not effectively address the immediate needs of the child. Attempting to provide back blows or using an inhaler not specifically prescribed to the child could delay more crucial medical intervention. Waiting to see if the breathing difficulty resolves on its own is also not appropriate, as this could worsen the situation for the child. In emergencies like this, timely action guided by thorough knowledge of first aid and emergency procedures is essential for the safety and well-being of the victim.