What is the fifth step in AED use?

What is the fifth step in AED use?

• A. Delivers a shock and resumes CPR immediately
• B. Turns on AED
• C. Attaches pads
• D. Analyzes rhythm

Answer: (A)

When an AED indicates a shock is needed, deliver the shock and then immediately resume CPR. The device’s shock is meant to reset the heart’s electrical activity, but quick, continuous chest compressions are essential to keep blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs. Delivering the shock answers the rhythm abnormality, and resuming CPR right away keeps circulation going while the heart recovers or until another rhythm check prompts further action. The earlier actions—turning on the device, placing the pads, and letting the AED analyze—happen before the shock is given, so the step of delivering a shock followed by immediate CPR is the moment where treatment pivots from analysis to actively restoring perfusion.

When an AED indicates a shock is needed, deliver the shock and then immediately resume CPR. The device’s shock is meant to reset the heart’s electrical activity, but quick, continuous chest compressions are essential to keep blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs. Delivering the shock answers the rhythm abnormality, and resuming CPR right away keeps circulation going while the heart recovers or until another rhythm check prompts further action. The earlier actions—turning on the device, placing the pads, and letting the AED analyze—happen before the shock is given, so the step of delivering a shock followed by immediate CPR is the moment where treatment pivots from analysis to actively restoring perfusion.