A nurse is explaining the Chain of Survival to a client. Which component represents the second link in the Chain of Survival for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)?

A) Correct. The absence of a pulse is the most reliable indicator of cardiac arrest. In cardiac arrest, the heart is no longer pumping effectively, leading to the absence of a palpable pulse.

B) Incorrect. An irregular breathing pattern may be observed in various medical conditions, including respiratory distress, but it is not as definitive as the absence of a pulse in indicating cardiac arrest.

C) Incorrect. Cyanosis of the lips and fingertips can occur in various situations, such as respiratory failure or decreased oxygenation, but it is not specific to cardiac arrest.

D) Incorrect. Sudden loss of consciousness can occur due to various reasons, including seizures or fainting, and is not solely indicative of cardiac arrest.

A) Incorrect. Defibrillation is not used to relieve pain and discomfort during cardiac arrest. Its primary purpose is to restore a normal heart rhythm.

B) Correct. Early defibrillation is crucial in BLS because it is the most effective intervention to restore a normal heart rhythm during cardiac arrest. It involves delivering an electric shock to the heart to stop chaotic rhythms like ventricular fibrillation and allow the heart's natural pacemaker to regain control.

C) Incorrect. Early defibrillation is not used to assess the client's response to BLS interventions. It is a time-sensitive intervention aimed at restoring a viable heart rhythm.

D) Incorrect. Defibrillation is appropriate for specific cardiac rhythms, especially ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia. In these cases, early defibrillation is vital. Delaying defibrillation can significantly decrease the chances of successful resuscitation.