Question

A 37-year-old doctor is found on the hallway floor. A nurse assesses for scene safety and determines the doctor is unresponsive, is not breathing, and has no pulse. After dialing the hospital operator and requesting the call for a code, she begins performing high-quality compressions on the victim. After the AED pads are attached to the victim's bare chest, the AED detects ventricular fibrillation. What is the next step when using the AED?

A. Check the victim for a carotid pulse
B. Follow the AED prompts
C. Check the patient
D. Press the shock button

Answer 1

The next step after an AED detects ventricular fibrillation is to follow the AED prompts, which include pressing the shock button when instructed, ensuring that everyone stands clear of the patient during the shock delivery.

Step-by-step explanation:

When an automated external defibrillator (AED) detects ventricular fibrillation, the next step is to follow the AED prompts. These devices provide verbal instructions and will lead the rescuer through the necessary steps, which typically involve ensuring that no one is touching the patient, then pressing the device's shock button to deliver the shock. It is imperative to stand clear of the person while the shock is administered to avoid any person receiving the unintended shock. The AED's automatic diagnosis and instructions are crucial in the critical first few minutes of a cardiac emergency.