Red Cross Lifeguard Practice Test

Which of the following is a key sign of effective chest compressions during CPR?

1. The victim's chest rises with each compression.

2. You can hear the chest crack during compressions.

3. The victim remains unresponsive throughout.

4. The rate of compressions exceeds 100 per minute.

The correct answer is: The victim's chest rises with each compression.

A key sign of effective chest compressions during CPR is indicated by the victim's chest rising with each compression. This physical response demonstrates that compressions are being performed with sufficient depth and force to circulate blood effectively. Proper chest rise indicates that air is being moved in and out of the lungs, which is critical for oxygenation, and that blood flow is being generated to vital organs. The other options do not reflect effective compression techniques. Hearing the chest crack may suggest inappropriate or excessive force being applied, which can cause injury. A victim remaining unresponsive throughout compressions does not provide any indication of the effectiveness of CPR; it is a state of being rather than a measure of the quality of compression. Lastly, while performing compressions at a rate exceeding 100 per minute is part of recommended guidelines, the quality and effectiveness of the compressions are better assessed by observing chest rise rather than relying merely on the rate of compressions.