Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What action should be taken if an infant presents with a heart rate of less than 60 bpm?

1. Start intravenous fluids

2. Initiate chest compressions

3. Administer supplemental oxygen

4. Assist with ventilation

The correct answer is: Initiate chest compressions

When an infant presents with a heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute, it indicates severe bradycardia, which can lead to insufficient cardiac output and potential respiratory failure. In such situations, the priority is to ensure adequate blood flow and perfusion to vital organs. Initiating chest compressions is a critical intervention in this scenario. Chest compressions help to manually circulate blood and provide oxygen to the heart and brain until more definitive care can be given. For infants, the recommended method for performing chest compressions involves using two fingers in the center of the chest, allowing for a proper compression rate and depth appropriate for their size. While other actions, such as administering supplemental oxygen or assisting with ventilation, may be necessary components of managing a critical situation, they do not address the immediate need to restore a normal heart rate and adequate circulation. Starting intravenous fluids may be appropriate in certain clinical contexts, but it is not the immediate priority when facing bradycardia in an infant. Therefore, initiating chest compressions is the most appropriate and urgent response to support the infant's condition effectively.