Question

You arrive on the scene of a 12-year-old child who suddenly collapsed on the playground. The child is unresponsive, apneic, and pulseless and CPR is in progress. A lay rescuer just brought the school AED, turned it on, and attached it. The AED recommends a shock. Which of the following should be done next?

Answer 1

When an AED recommends a shock, ensure that no one is touching the victim, administer the shock, and immediately continue with CPR, focusing on chest compressions. AEDs automatically diagnose heart rhythms and direct rescuers when a shock is necessary, and these devices are increasingly available in public spaces to enable rapid response in cardiac emergencies.

Step-by-step explanation:

Once the AED advises a shock, ensure that no one is touching the child, and then administer the shock as directed by the device. Immediately after the shock, continue CPR starting with chest compressions. This sequence is crucial to increase the chance of survival.

CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) should be performed promptly in cases of sudden collapse, as it helps maintain vital blood flow to the heart and brain. The AED is an essential tool in this process, being capable of diagnosing heart rhythms and delivering appropriate electrical shocks to restart the heart. Many public places, as well as ambulances, are equipped with these devices due to their ability to provide quick assistance in the event of a cardiac emergency.

Following an AED shock, continuous chest compressions and rescue breaths should be resumed immediately for two minutes before the AED re-evaluates the heart rhythm for any further action.