AHA Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Initiating positive pressure ventilation is critical when a child cannot maintain adequate oxygenation or ventilation. Respiratory failure can present as either inadequate breathing patterns or insufficient gas exchange, leading to hypoxia or hypercapnia. In this context, positive pressure ventilation serves to provide mechanical assistance to ensure that the lungs can adequately deliver oxygen to the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide.

When a child cannot maintain these physiological functions, there is an immediate need for intervention to prevent further decline in their respiratory status. It is essential to recognize that timely response is vital in these scenarios, as prolonged respiratory failure can lead to cardiac arrest or irreversible damage to vital organs.

In contrast, initiating positive pressure ventilation during cardiac arrest would not be appropriate as the primary focus in that scenario shifts to high-quality chest compressions and establishing a respiration function through effective resuscitation techniques. Moreover, positive pressure ventilation after confirming a clear airway is unnecessary, as ventilation is indicated when there are concerns regarding oxygenation and ventilation status. Lastly, waiting until after the first breath to initiate ventilation does not align with the best practice of addressing respiratory failure swiftly and effectively.