When should defibrillation be administered?

Defibrillation should be administered as soon as an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) becomes available and the patient is confirmed to be unresponsive. This action is crucial because early defibrillation significantly increases the chances of survival in cases of cardiac arrest, particularly due to ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia.

In situations of sudden cardiac arrest, immediate recognition of unresponsiveness and activation of the emergency response system, combined with rapid access to an AED, allows for prompt defibrillation. Studies have shown that the likelihood of successful resuscitation decreases significantly with each passing minute without defibrillation, emphasizing the importance of acting quickly.

Performing CPR is essential and should be initiated promptly, but the use of defibrillation takes precedence as soon as the AED is available, especially since the device provides specific guidance for operation and is designed to assess the heart’s rhythm.

In terms of other options, while calling emergency services is vital, it should happen simultaneously with initiating CPR and obtaining an AED to ensure swift response. The recommendation to delay defibrillation until after a certain period of CPR or only in cases of existing heart conditions is not aligned with current guidelines and practices. The focus of BLS is to act decisively