A nurse is instructing a group of healthcare providers about the importance of early defibrillation in CPR. What is the rationale for early defibrillation?

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. Placing the pads on the right side of the chest is not the correct position for defibrillation. The pads should be positioned differently.

B) Correct. The proper placement of AED pads involves placing one pad on the center of the chest and the other pad on the left side of the chest. This placement allows the electrical current to flow effectively through the heart and is consistent with current guidelines.

C) Incorrect. Placing one pad on the back and the other on the front of the chest is not the recommended position for AED pads. The pads should be placed on the chest.

D) Incorrect. Placing the pads on the lower abdomen is not the correct position for defibrillation. The pads should be positioned on the chest to deliver the electric shock to the heart.