CPR & AED
20 free practice questions with explanations
PassNova has 20 free First Aid at Work practice questions on CPR & AED, each with a clear explanation. Practise them in the browser with instant feedback — 100% free, no sign-up, on any device. Updated for 2026.
CPR & AED: example questions & answers
12 worked examples with answers and explanations below. Practise all 20 CPR & AED questions free in the browser, with instant feedback on every answer.
What is the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio for adult CPR?
- A15:2
- B30:2✓
- C100:2
- D20:1
Answer: For adult CPR, the recommended ratio is 30 chest compressions to 2 rescue breaths (30:2). Current guidelines emphasize continuous, effective compressions.
What is the correct depth for chest compressions in adult CPR?
- A2-3 cm
- B5-6 cm✓
- C10-12 cm
- D15 cm or more
Answer: Adult chest compressions should be 5-6 cm deep. This ensures adequate blood flow to vital organs without causing excessive injury.
What is the correct compression rate for CPR?
- A40-60 compressions per minute
- B80-100 compressions per minute
- C100-120 compressions per minute✓
- D150 compressions per minute
Answer: The recommended compression rate is 100-120 compressions per minute. This maintains adequate circulation and is consistent with the rhythm of the song 'Stayin' Alive'.
Where should chest compressions be applied on an adult?
- AOn the left side of the chest
- BOn the upper chest near the shoulders
- CIn the center of the chest on the lower half of the breastbone✓
- DOn the abdomen
Answer: Compressions should be applied to the center of the chest on the lower half of the breastbone (sternum), between the nipples.
What is the correct hand position for delivering chest compressions?
- AOne hand on the chest with fingers spread
- BBoth hands flat on the chest
- CThe heel of one hand on the sternum with the other hand on top, fingers interlocked✓
- DThe palm of one hand only
Answer: Place the heel of one hand on the lower sternum and place your other hand on top with fingers interlocked. Keep arms straight and lean over the casualty.
When should CPR be started?
- AOnly if the casualty has no pulse
- BOnly after checking for 10 seconds
- CImmediately in an unresponsive, non-breathing casualty✓
- DOnly if an AED is available
Answer: CPR should be started immediately if the casualty is unresponsive and not breathing normally. Do not delay CPR to check for a pulse.
What is the correct ratio for child CPR?
- A30:2✓
- B15:2
- C100:2
- D25:1
Answer: The recommended ratio for child CPR (1-18 years) is 30:2, the same as adults. For infants (under 1 year), the ratio is 30:2 using two-finger chest compressions.
What is the correct compression depth for child CPR?
- A2-3 cm
- B4-5 cm✓
- C5-6 cm
- D8-10 cm
Answer: For child CPR, compress by at least one-third of the chest depth — about 5 cm. This is shallower than adult CPR (5-6 cm).
What is the correct compression depth for infant CPR?
- A1-2 cm
- B2-3 cm
- C4-5 cm✓
- D5-6 cm
Answer: For infant CPR (under 1 year), compress by about one-third of the chest depth — approximately 4 cm — using two fingers (or the two-thumb encircling technique).
What technique should be used for infant chest compressions?
- ABoth hands with fingers interlocked
- BThe heel of one hand
- CThe tips of two fingers in the center of the chest✓
- DOne hand with fingers spread
Answer: For infants, use the tips of two fingers (usually the index and middle finger) to compress the chest at approximately one-third of its depth.
What does AED stand for?
- AAutomated External Defibrillator✓
- BAutomated Emergency Demand
- CAutomated Electrical Device
- DAutomatic External Defibrillation
Answer: AED stands for Automated External Defibrillator. It is a portable device that analyzes the heart rhythm and delivers an electric shock if needed.
When should an AED be used?
- AOnly for conscious casualties
- BFor unconscious, non-breathing casualties who may be in cardiac arrest✓
- COnly after 10 minutes of CPR
- DNever in a workplace first aid situation
Answer: An AED should be used for an unresponsive, non-breathing casualty who may be in cardiac arrest. Apply it as soon as it becomes available.