Which of the following is a sign that CPR was effective?

The restoration of pulse is a clear indicator that cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is effective. When CPR is performed on a patient experiencing cardiac arrest, the primary goal is to circulate oxygenated blood to vital organs and restore normal heart rhythms. A pulse signifies that the heart has begun to beat effectively again, indicating that blood circulation has been re-established.

In some situations, other signs such as increased blood pressure might also imply some improvement in circulation, but a definitive restoration of pulse provides direct evidence that the heart is functioning sufficiently to maintain blood flow. Signs like a lower heart rate or a sympathetic response may not conclusively indicate effective CPR, as they can occur under various circumstances that do not necessarily mean the heart has been successfully revived.