Final answer:
When a patient becomes unresponsive again after having been resuscitated by an AED, the first step is to check the pulse. If no pulse is detected, resume CPR immediately, focusing on high-quality chest compressions. The answer is option D.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient who was previously pulseless had a return of spontaneous pulses after one shock from the AED but becomes unresponsive again before transport, the first step you should take is to check the pulse. If no pulse is found, you will need to resume CPR, beginning with chest compressions.
It's important to note that during a cardiac emergency, CPR is critical for maintaining blood flow to the brain and other vital organs until normal heart rhythm can be restored. If the patient had a pulse and lost it, the underlying cardiac arrhythmia may have resumed, and immediate reevaluation and possible additional defibrillation may be needed.