New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

Cardiac arrest in the pediatric population is most commonly the result of?

1. A complete airway obstruction

2. Respiratory or circulatory failure

3. A congenital cardiovascular defect

4. Lethal cardiac rhythm disturbances

The correct answer is: Respiratory or circulatory failure

In the pediatric population, cardiac arrest is typically a secondary event often triggered by underlying respiratory or circulatory failure. Children are more susceptible to respiratory issues, such as asthma, pneumonia, or other airway obstructions, which can lead to a decrease in oxygen levels and subsequent heart failure if not addressed promptly. Respiratory distress can quickly progress to cardiac arrest, making it essential for emergency responders to focus on maintaining adequate ventilation and oxygenation in children. In contrast, while airway obstruction and congenital issues can play a role, they are not the primary causes of cardiac arrest in this age group. Lethal cardiac rhythm disturbances, although they can occur, are less common as a direct initial cause compared to respiratory events. Thus, respiratory or circulatory failure is recognized as the leading factor contributing to cardiac arrest in pediatric patients.