Ace the Basic Life Support (BLS) Challenge 2025 – Breathe Life into Your Skills!

After delivering a shock during CPR, the new compressor should start CPR immediately. This is critical because the primary goal after delivering a shock to a patient in cardiac arrest is to continue providing high-quality chest compressions. An effective CPR regimen improves the chance of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and increases survival rates.

The interruption in chest compressions should be minimized to maintain blood flow and oxygen delivery to vital organs. Starting CPR right away ensures there is no delay in compressions, which is vital for the patient's chances of recovery.

In contrast, assessing the patient again immediately after shock delivery can lead to critical delays in care, as the patient may require ongoing compressions immediately following defibrillation. Similarly, waiting to attach AED pads or continuing with a normal rhythm would not respond effectively to the urgency required in the resuscitation effort following a defibrillation shock. Providing immediate chest compressions supports the heart and circulatory system during this crucial time.