NREMT Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Cognitive ExamCardiology & ResuscitationEasy
A 50-year-old male is found unresponsive, pulseless, and apneic. CPR is initiated, and an AED is applied. The AED analyzes the rhythm and states 'No Shock Advised.' What is the MOST appropriate next action?
- AVentilate the patient at a rate of one breath every 5-6 seconds.
- BResume chest compressions immediately.
- CRe-analyze the rhythm after 2 minutes.
- DCheck for a pulse for no more than 10 seconds.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Resume chest compressions immediately.
If an AED advises 'No Shock Advised,' it means the patient's rhythm is not shockable (asystole or PEA). The most appropriate next action is to immediately resume high-quality chest compressions to maintain vital organ perfusion.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Ventilations are part of CPR, but compressions must be resumed immediately after AED analysis if no shock is advised.
- C. Rhythm re-analysis occurs after 2 minutes of CPR, not immediately after a 'No Shock Advised' message.
- D. Checking for a pulse should be done after 2 minutes of CPR, not immediately after 'No Shock Advised'.
AED 'No Shock Advised' Protocol
When an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) indicates 'No Shock Advised,' it means the patient's cardiac rhythm is not a shockable rhythm (e.g., asystole or pulseless electrical activity).
- Indicates non-shockable rhythm (asystole/PEA).
- Requires immediate resumption of chest compressions.
- Minimizes interruptions in CPR.
Memory trick: No shock, no stop, just keep the beat!