Final answer:
Terminating resuscitation in asystole requires following ACLS protocols, considering reversible causes, and using external or internal defibrillation when needed, and continuing CPR until regaining heartbeat or declaring death.
Step-by-step explanation:
When terminating resuscitation for asystole both in and out of hospital, one should follow advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) protocols, which involves confirming asystole, ruling out reversible causes, and adhering to local legal and ethical guidelines. In the absence of any reversible causes and after an adequate duration of unsuccessful CPR and ACLS, cessation of resuscitative efforts may be considered.
During resuscitation, if electrical activity of the heart is disrupted, leading to ventricular or atrial fibrillation, defibrillation using an external automated defibrillator (EAD) or defibrillator paddles is the common treatment to reestablish a normal sinus rhythm. In case of cardiac arrest during surgery, the application of an adequate voltage, calculated based on the resistance and desired current, through a defibrillator can restore heart function.