What is the sequence for performing CPR on an adult before applying an AED?

What is the sequence for performing CPR on an adult before applying an AED?

• A. Verify unresponsiveness, shout for help, check breathing, begin CPR with 30 compressions/2 breaths, have someone fetch the AED, apply pads when available, follow prompts, resume CPR between shocks
• B. Check for breathing, immediately apply AED, then begin CPR only after shocks
• C. Begin chest compressions, then check responsiveness
• D. Apply AED first, then start CPR

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to start life-saving chest compressions as soon as you determine the person isn’t responsive and isn’t breathing normally, while quickly getting the AED. You verify unresponsiveness and shout for help so others can assist and fetch the AED. Then you check for normal breathing to decide if CPR is needed—if there’s no normal breathing, you begin CPR right away with 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths to maintain blood flow to the brain and heart. While you’re delivering CPR, it’s important to have someone bring the AED to the scene so you can apply it as soon as it’s available. When the AED is ready, you turn it on, apply the pads, and follow its prompts, continuing CPR between shocks. This sequence keeps blood circulating quickly while defibrillation is prepared, maximizing the chances of a successful rhythm recovery without delaying essential chest compressions. The other options either delay starting CPR, rush defibrillation before creating a perfusing path, or skip the critical steps of confirming status and getting help, which can reduce the effectiveness of the response.

The main idea is to start life-saving chest compressions as soon as you determine the person isn’t responsive and isn’t breathing normally, while quickly getting the AED. You verify unresponsiveness and shout for help so others can assist and fetch the AED. Then you check for normal breathing to decide if CPR is needed—if there’s no normal breathing, you begin CPR right away with 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths to maintain blood flow to the brain and heart. While you’re delivering CPR, it’s important to have someone bring the AED to the scene so you can apply it as soon as it’s available. When the AED is ready, you turn it on, apply the pads, and follow its prompts, continuing CPR between shocks. This sequence keeps blood circulating quickly while defibrillation is prepared, maximizing the chances of a successful rhythm recovery without delaying essential chest compressions. The other options either delay starting CPR, rush defibrillation before creating a perfusing path, or skip the critical steps of confirming status and getting help, which can reduce the effectiveness of the response.