Answer :
Final answer:
You should stop CPR and compressions when the AED prompts to stand clear, which is after it has analyzed the patient's heart rhythm and is about to deliver a shock if necessary. This step allows a safe and effective shock to be administered to potentially save the victim's life. So the correct answer is option(C).
Explanation:
If another rescuer arrives with the AED, you should stop compressions when the AED prompts to stand clear. This is a critical step in the process of using an AED during a cardiac emergency. Initially, CPR is recommended to ensure the flow of oxygenated blood throughout the body until the AED is ready for use. The Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is designed for public use and comes equipped with verbal instructions to guide rescuers through the process.
After the AED pads are attached to the victim, the device automatically analyzes the patient's heart rhythm to determine if a shock is necessary. It is only when the AED explicitly prompts rescuers to stand clear that compressions should momentarily stop to allow the AED to deliver the shock safely, without risking the safety of the rescuer or interfering with the effectiveness of the shock.
The use of an AED is a crucial component in attempting to save the life of someone experiencing a cardiac arrest, especially in cases arising from ventricular fibrillation or fast, irregular heartbeats, where the shock delivered by an AED can help reset the heart's rhythm to normal. Following an AED shock, CPR should be resumed immediately if the victim remains unresponsive and until the emergency services arrive or the individual shows signs of regaining consciousness.
