To save the life of someone who collapses from sudden cardiac arrest, which statement is correct?

• A. CPR must be administered
• B. Both CPR and AED are required
• C. AED must be used
• D. Neither CPR nor AED

Answer: (B)

When someone collapses from sudden cardiac arrest, keeping the blood flowing and correcting the heart rhythm are both essential. High-quality CPR maintains circulation and oxygen delivery to the brain while help is on the way. An AED analyzes the heart rhythm and delivers a shock if a shockable rhythm is detected, which can restore a normal rhythm. Using both together gives the best chance of survival: CPR sustains perfusion until a shock can be delivered, and the AED provides the definitive treatment to correct the rhythm when appropriate. In practice, start CPR immediately and apply the AED as soon as it’s available, following its prompts and resuming CPR right after any shock.