If a cardiac arrest patient were in asystole, which one of the following messages would the AED provide?
A Press analyze
B Shock advised
C Check electrodes
D No shock advised
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is D. No shock advised.
Explanation:
Asystole is the medical term for “flatline,” a condition where there is no electrical activity in the heart. In this state, the heart’s electrical system fails to generate any rhythm, meaning there are no impulses causing the heart to contract. This is a critical situation, and the chances of survival are extremely low without immediate intervention.
When an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is used on a patient in asystole, the device will analyze the heart’s rhythm. Since asystole does not have a shockable rhythm, the AED will detect this and issue the message: “No shock advised.” The AED will not recommend delivering a shock in this case because there is no electrical disarray in the heart that can be reset by defibrillation.
It’s important to note that AEDs are designed to recognize two types of shockable rhythms: ventricular fibrillation (VF) and pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT). These are the conditions where an electrical shock can potentially restore a normal rhythm. In contrast, asystole requires different management, typically involving high-quality chest compressions and, if available, medications like epinephrine.
Therefore, the AED will not advise a shock for asystole, but it will guide the responder to perform CPR and continue with life-saving interventions until professional help arrives.
For a patient in asystole, the focus shifts to supporting circulation with chest compressions and ensuring the airway is open, while awaiting advanced medical care.