American Lifeguard Practice Exam 2025 - Free Lifeguard Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct protocol for CPR on a child, when performed by two lifeguards, is to use a cycle of 15 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. This approach is in alignment with guidelines established by major organizations such as the American Heart Association.

When performing CPR on a child, the compression-to-breath ratio is adjusted to ensure a balance between adequate circulatory support and ventilation. The rationale behind using 15 compressions instead of 30 is to provide more frequent breaths for a younger and typically more vulnerable population, acknowledging that children may require more oxygen in situations of cardiac arrest. Additionally, the presence of two lifeguards allows for this adjusted cycle, making it more manageable and effective in a group setting.

The alternative options either propose incorrect ratios or are designed for different age groups or scenarios, which do not align with the specific guidelines for child CPR in a two-rescuer situation. This careful structuring helps ensure that the child receives the most effective emergency assistance possible.