Question

What is the recommended next step after a defibrillation attempt?

Answer 1

Answer: Resume CPR, starting with chest compressions

It is recommended to immediately resume CPR, starting with chest compressions following an attempted defibrillation because most patients remain pulseless for over 2 minutes and the duration of asystole before return of pulses is longer than 120s beyond the shock gap.

In addition, chest compressions should be interrupted at 10 seconds or less and should be done at a rate of 100 - 120 compressions per minute.  The depth of compression must be about 1.5 inches for infants, about 2 inches for children and at least 2 inches or (5 cm) for an adult, while avoiding excessive chest compression depths greater than 2.4 inches or (6 cm).