In the management of ventricular fibrillation, which statement is consistent with the provided guidance?

• A. Defibrillation should occur before any CPR
• B. Defibrillation is never used in conjunction with CPR
• C. CPR then defibrillation
• D. Defibrillation is avoided in the presence of CPR

Answer: (C)

During ventricular fibrillation, keeping blood flowing to the brain and heart is crucial, so starting high‑quality chest compressions right away to maintain perfusion is essential while the team prepares to deliver a shock. The guidance emphasizes initiating CPR immediately and then delivering the defibrillation as soon as it can be performed without causing long pauses in compressions. This approach helps preserve organ perfusion and improves the likelihood that defibrillation will successfully restore a normal rhythm.

So, CPR first, then defibrillation, aligns with the goal of minimizing interruptions to chest compression while still treating the shockable rhythm with a timely shock. Defibrillation is not avoided or prohibited during CPR, and defibrillating before any CPR would risk delaying perfusion, which is not optimal for outcomes.