When should you stop chest compressions to confirm a shockable rhythm?

The correct answer indicates that chest compressions should be paused for no longer than 5 seconds to confirm a shockable rhythm. This brief interruption is critical because it allows the healthcare provider to assess the heart's rhythm on the electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor. Prolonged interruptions in chest compressions can hinder the delivery of effective CPR and decrease the likelihood of a successful resuscitation.

During this short pause, monitoring the rhythm is essential to determine if a shock is indicated; specifically, to identify if the rhythm is either ventricular fibrillation (VF) or pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT), both of which are shockable rhythms. Quickly confirming this allows for timely defibrillation, which is vital for restoring a normal heart rhythm.

This approach aligns with guidelines that emphasize the importance of minimizing interruptions in chest compressions during cardiac arrest, balancing the need for rhythm assessment with ongoing high-quality CPR. Maintaining effective circulation is crucial to keeping blood flow to vital organs, particularly the brain and heart, during this life-threatening situation.