How long should the health care provider assess for a pulse on an unresponsive patient?

a. 5 sec
b. 10 sec
c. 15 sec
d. 30 sec

ANS: B
Assessment of the pulse of an unresponsive patient by health care providers should be limited to 10 sec to avoid delaying chest compressions. Pulse checks are difficult to accomplish with any fidelity. Pulse and rhythm checks should not be done after a shock until five cycles of CPR have been completed. Pulse checks should not be done by lay rescuers.