What is the next immediate step after delivering a shock with an AED?

After delivering a shock with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), the immediate next step is to resume Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) without delay. This is crucial because the primary goal of CPR is to maintain blood circulation and oxygen delivery to vital organs until normal heart rhythm is restored or until advanced medical help arrives.

Resuming CPR immediately after delivering a shock is important as it helps to increase the chances of survival and improves the chances of successful defibrillation by circulating blood. The shock delivered by the AED may have disrupted the abnormal heart rhythm, but effective chest compressions are needed to support the circulatory system and ensure that oxygenated blood reaches the brain and other organs.

Timing is vital in resuscitation efforts, and CPR should continue for approximately two minutes, or until the AED prompts again, or until professional help arrives. This focus on continuous CPR after defibrillation aligns with established resuscitation guidelines.