In basic life support for CPR, which action initiates the sequence?

In basic life support for CPR, which action initiates the sequence?

• A. Ventilation
• B. Chest compressions
• C. Defibrillation
• D. Drug administration

Answer: (C)

Defibrillation is what starts the resuscitation sequence in basic life support when a shockable rhythm is detected. In an AED-assisted CPR scenario, the device analyzes the heart rhythm and, if a shock is advised, delivering the defibrillation shock is the event that marks the transition into the resuscitation cycle. After the shock, you immediately resume chest compressions and provide ventilation as part of ongoing CPR, continuing in repeated cycles and rechecking rhythm as indicated. Ventilation and chest compressions are essential ongoing actions, but the shock is the initiating event for the rhythm-restart process when a shockable rhythm is present. Drug administration is not part of basic life support.

Defibrillation is what starts the resuscitation sequence in basic life support when a shockable rhythm is detected. In an AED-assisted CPR scenario, the device analyzes the heart rhythm and, if a shock is advised, delivering the defibrillation shock is the event that marks the transition into the resuscitation cycle. After the shock, you immediately resume chest compressions and provide ventilation as part of ongoing CPR, continuing in repeated cycles and rechecking rhythm as indicated. Ventilation and chest compressions are essential ongoing actions, but the shock is the initiating event for the rhythm-restart process when a shockable rhythm is present. Drug administration is not part of basic life support.