Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

After delivering a shock with an AED, what is the next action the team should take?

1. Check for a pulse

2. Resume chest compressions

3. Administer rescue breaths

4. Call for additional help

The correct answer is: Resume chest compressions

After delivering a shock with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), the immediate next action should be to resume chest compressions. This is crucial because high-quality chest compressions help maintain blood flow to vital organs during cardiac arrest. The effectiveness of a shock relies on the heart being able to regain a normal rhythm, and continued compressions enhance the chances of achieving this by providing necessary circulation. While checking for a pulse is important, it should not interrupt the flow of CPR immediately after a shock is delivered. If the person does not have a pulse, compressions should be resumed immediately. Administering rescue breaths may also be part of the protocol, but the priority post-shock is to maintain compressions until advanced care arrives or the patient shows signs of life. Calling for additional help can be essential, but this would typically be part of the initial response or a coordinated algorithm for CPR. Resuming chest compressions is the most critical immediate action to take following a shock.