Question

A patient presents with no pulse, and the ECG shows the following rhythm. What is the next appropriate step? 

• A. Defibrillate, check pulse and then perform CPR
• B. Cardioversion
• C. Defibrillate, perform CPR, and then check the pulse
• D. Administer epinephrine

Hint:

In the case of ventricular fibrillation, defibrillation followed by CPR is the most effective initial management to restore circulation and save the patient’s life.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The ECG provided shows a rhythm consistent with a life-threatening arrhythmia, most likely ventricular fibrillation (VF). In the case of VF, the initial step is to defibrillate the patient to attempt to restore a normal rhythm. Following defibrillation, the next crucial step is to immediately perform CPR to maintain circulation until the rhythm can be assessed again. Checking the pulse should be done after CPR to assess whether the intervention was effective and if further actions are required. - Option (1) is incorrect because checking the pulse before performing CPR could delay the necessary life-saving intervention. - Option (2) is incorrect because cardioversion is typically used for other types of arrhythmias, like atrial fibrillation, not for VF. - Option (4) is incorrect as administering epinephrine is not the immediate first step, although it may be indicated later in the resuscitation process.