What should you do after a shock is delivered (or if the AED determines no shock is necessary)?

• A. Restart from the beginning
• B. Begin CPR
• C. Check for a pulse
• D. Reassess the patient quickly

Answer: (B)

After a shock is delivered, or if the AED determines no shock is needed, the priority is to restore circulation. Defibrillation can reset the heart rhythm, but it does not provide blood flow. Begin CPR immediately to maintain blood flow to the brain and vital organs, continuing in the usual cycles (compressions, and breaths if trained). Do not pause to check for a pulse in a way that delays CPR; the device will prompt the next analysis. If a pulse is found, stop CPR and monitor; if no pulse remains, continue CPR and follow the AED prompts for reanalysis and additional shocks as needed.