What is the correct CPR sequence when an AED is available?

What is the correct CPR sequence when an AED is available?

• A. First apply the AED, then start chest compressions.
• B. Start chest compressions immediately and apply the AED when ready, continuing until help arrives or the person recovers.
• C. Call for medical help and wait for arrival before starting CPR.
• D. Provide rescue breaths only.

Answer: (B)

With an AED available, the key idea is to keep blood flowing with chest compressions while getting the defibrillator ready and using it as soon as possible. Start high-quality chest compressions right away to sustain circulation and oxygen delivery. You can turn on the AED and place its pads on the chest while you continue compressions. The AED will prompt you to analyze and, if a shock is advised, deliver it after ensuring no one is touching the person. Then immediately resume chest compressions. This approach minimizes delays in time-critical circulation and defibrillation. Waiting to apply the AED before starting compressions wastes valuable seconds, and giving only rescue breaths misses the importance of continuous compressions in adult cardiac arrest.

With an AED available, the key idea is to keep blood flowing with chest compressions while getting the defibrillator ready and using it as soon as possible. Start high-quality chest compressions right away to sustain circulation and oxygen delivery. You can turn on the AED and place its pads on the chest while you continue compressions. The AED will prompt you to analyze and, if a shock is advised, deliver it after ensuring no one is touching the person. Then immediately resume chest compressions.

This approach minimizes delays in time-critical circulation and defibrillation. Waiting to apply the AED before starting compressions wastes valuable seconds, and giving only rescue breaths misses the importance of continuous compressions in adult cardiac arrest.