A hypothermic patient is in cardiac arrest. The automated external defibrillator (AED) is applied and delivers one shock. Which one of the following actions would the EMT perform next?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In hypothermic patients in cardiac arrest, the AED may not accurately analyze the heart rhythm due to low body temperature. Therefore, starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is the next best step. CPR should be initiated until the patient's core temperature is increased to at least 30°C (86°F) before reanalyzing the heart rhythm or defibrillating again. Ventilations and compressions are both important components of CPR and should be performed according to current guidelines. Checking for a pulse is not recommended in cardiac arrest, as it can waste valuable time that should be spent on CPR and defibrillation.

A Hypothermic Patient Is in Cardiac Arrest