Skill sheet · About 10 minutes
Cardiac Arrest Management with an AED
The station scores compression quality and how little time you spend not compressing. Every pause should be under 10 seconds, and the AED analysis is the only reason to stop.
Step-by-step order
- BSI and scene safety.
- Check responsiveness, breathing, and a carotid pulse simultaneously for no more than 10 seconds.
- Direct activation of additional resources and request the AED.
- Begin compressions: 100–120 per minute, 2 to 2.4 inches deep, full recoil, hard surface.
- Ventilate 30:2 with a BVM and high-flow oxygen, one second per breath.
- Apply AED pads as soon as the device arrives without stopping compressions.
- Clear the patient, analyze, and deliver a shock if advised.
- Resume compressions immediately after the shock — no pulse check.
- Continue two-minute cycles, switching compressors to limit fatigue.
- Reassess after the cycle; verbalize transport and continued resuscitation.
Critical fail criteria
- Failed to take or verbalize BSI precautions.
- Failed to begin compressions within 10 seconds of identifying arrest.
- Interrupted CPR for more than 10 seconds outside of AED analysis.
- Compressed at the wrong rate, depth, or without full recoil.
- Failed to operate the AED properly or to clear the patient before shocking.
- Delayed defibrillation once the AED was available.
- Failed to ventilate at the correct ratio and volume.
Say-it-out-loud script
Examiners score what they hear. Narrate the station: "Scene safe, BSI on. Unresponsive, no breathing, no pulse — starting compressions now. Partner, activate additional resources and get the AED. Pads on, everyone clear, analyzing. Shock advised — clear, shocking. Resuming compressions immediately."
FAQ
Do I check a pulse right after a shock?
No. Resume compressions immediately and reassess at the end of the two-minute cycle.
What compression depth and rate are required?
100–120 compressions per minute at 2 to 2.4 inches (5 to 6 cm) with complete chest recoil between compressions.
How long may CPR be interrupted?
Under 10 seconds, and only for a rhythm analysis, a shock, or a compressor switch.
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