Final answer:
The true statement about defibrillation is that it involves delivering a shock which helps the heart to resume an effective rhythm. Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) can be used by anyone, and CPR is often recommended before defibrillation to increase success rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Defibrillation is a critical procedure in which a large electrical charge is delivered briefly to the heart via paddles or electrodes. This is essential during a cardiac emergency, such as ventricular fibrillation, where the heart beats rapidly and erratically, preventing effective blood pumping. The shock from a defibrillator can halt this erratic rhythm, allowing the body's natural pacemaker to restore a normal rhythm.
Automated external defibrillators (AED) are now commonly found in public spaces and are designed to be used by laypersons. These devices assess the cardiac rhythm and administer a shock with the appropriate energy and waveform. Contrary to statement C, CPR is often recommended before defibrillation as it can improve the chances of successful defibrillation by maintaining blood flow to the heart and brain.
It is not correct to use defibrillation on a person merely complaining of chest pain without any diagnosis, as indicated in statement B. Defibrillation is a critical link in the Cardiac Chain of Survival, which disproves statement D.