What should you do immediately after delivering a shock with an AED?

Immediately after delivering a shock with an AED, the essential step is to resume CPR and follow the instructions provided by the AED. This action is critical because, in the event of a cardiac arrest, defibrillation may restore a normal heart rhythm, but immediate CPR is necessary to maintain blood flow to vital organs until professional medical help can take over.

Continuing CPR after the shock helps keep the blood circulating, which can prevent further damage to the brain and other organs. The AED will typically prompt you to continue CPR for a specific duration or until it determines that another shock is necessary based on the patient's heart rhythm. This sequence of delivering shocks and performing CPR is part of the chain of survival and is vital for increasing the chances of survival in a cardiac emergency.

While checking for a pulse or waiting for emergency services may seem important, prioritizing ongoing CPR and following the AED's directions is crucial in the immediate aftermath of a shock.