What is the recommended sequence for treating ventricular fibrillation?

What is the recommended sequence for treating ventricular fibrillation?

• A. Defibrillation first, then CPR
• B. CP followed by pharmacologic therapy
• C. CPR then electrical defibrillation
• D. Defibrillation only

Answer: (C)

Ventricular fibrillation leaves the heart unable to pump, so sustaining blood flow is critical while you work to restore a normal rhythm. High-quality CPR provides essential perfusion to the brain and heart, buying time and improving the chances that a subsequent defibrillation will succeed. Delivering an electrical shock then terminates the chaotic electrical activity and lets the heart resume an organized rhythm, so the two steps work best in sequence: start CPR right away and then deliver the defibrillation as soon as it’s ready. Skipping CPR or delaying the shock in the name of other interventions reduces chances of survival, and waiting to give medications after CPR without addressing the immediate need to shock is not as effective in this scenario.

Ventricular fibrillation leaves the heart unable to pump, so sustaining blood flow is critical while you work to restore a normal rhythm. High-quality CPR provides essential perfusion to the brain and heart, buying time and improving the chances that a subsequent defibrillation will succeed. Delivering an electrical shock then terminates the chaotic electrical activity and lets the heart resume an organized rhythm, so the two steps work best in sequence: start CPR right away and then deliver the defibrillation as soon as it’s ready. Skipping CPR or delaying the shock in the name of other interventions reduces chances of survival, and waiting to give medications after CPR without addressing the immediate need to shock is not as effective in this scenario.