What should you do about chest compressions when a shock is delivered?

• A. Stop compressions until the rhythm is checked
• B. Resume chest compressions immediately after defibrillation and continue for about 2 minutes before rechecking rhythm
• C. Pause briefly to check for a pulse
• D. Check for breathing for 30 seconds before continuing

Answer: (B)

When a shock is delivered, the most important step is to keep blood flowing by chest compressions without delay. A defibrillation shock may restart the heart’s rhythm, but it doesn’t immediately guarantee effective perfusion. Resuming compressions right away helps maintain blood flow to the brain and heart while the heart recovers from the shock. Continue compressions for about two minutes, then recheck the rhythm and pulse. This approach minimizes interruptions in perfusion and gives the heart a better chance to regain an organized rhythm.

Stopping compressions to check the rhythm or pulse too soon creates a dangerous break in perfusion. Checking for a pulse during ongoing CPR is unreliable and can lead to delays. Checking breathing for 30 seconds isn’t part of the immediate post-shock sequence; the focus is on delivering CPR continuously and reassessing after the two-minute cycle.