What is recommended to minimize interruptions in chest compressions when using an AED?

What is recommended to minimize interruptions in chest compressions when using an AED?

• A. Continue CPR only after AED prompts to clear
• B. Pause CPR while the AED analyzes rhythm
• C. Continue high-quality CPR until the AED prompts to clear
• D. Only resume CPR after the AED delivers a shock

Answer: (C)

Maintaining continuous, high-quality chest compressions is crucial because each interruption reduces blood flow to the heart and brain. When you’re using an AED, the best way to minimize interruptions is to keep performing compressions until the device prompts everyone to clear for analysis or shock. The AED will require a brief pause to analyze the rhythm or to deliver a shock, but you should not add extra delays beyond that. After the device finishes analyzing or a shock is delivered, resume chest compressions immediately and continue at the recommended rate and depth. This approach keeps perfusion as high as possible and improves the chance of recovery.

Maintaining continuous, high-quality chest compressions is crucial because each interruption reduces blood flow to the heart and brain. When you’re using an AED, the best way to minimize interruptions is to keep performing compressions until the device prompts everyone to clear for analysis or shock. The AED will require a brief pause to analyze the rhythm or to deliver a shock, but you should not add extra delays beyond that. After the device finishes analyzing or a shock is delivered, resume chest compressions immediately and continue at the recommended rate and depth. This approach keeps perfusion as high as possible and improves the chance of recovery.