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

After delivering a shock with an AED, it is critical to resume CPR immediately. This is because the shock may help restore a normal rhythm in the heart, but the patient still needs immediate support to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation to vital organs. CPR serves to provide this essential circulation until advanced medical help arrives or until the AED prompts for further analysis.

While other actions may seem reasonable, they do not align with the immediate priorities outlined in BLS protocols. Waiting for the next AED prompt does not capitalize on the critical moments after defibrillation when the patient may need resuscitation efforts to maximize the chances of survival. Similarly, checking for signs of consciousness should only be done after CPR has been resumed and is typically monitored throughout the resuscitation process. Changing AED pads is unnecessary after a shock has been delivered unless they are wet or not adhering properly, which is not the immediate concern post-shock.

In summary, resuming CPR right after delivering a shock is crucial to ensure continuous circulation and improve the likelihood of a successful outcome for the patient.