A patient goes into cardiac arrest and the nurse initiates CPR. A second nurse responds to the call for help. What should the role of the second nurse be?
Explanation
•When arriving on the scene, the second nurse should first get the AED device and apply the pads.
•The AED will check for a shockable rhythm, and then after a shock is delivered (or if no shock is indicated), the second nurse should then relieve the first nurse to provide uninterrupted CPR by taking over compressions to allow the first nurse to rest. Thereafter, the two nurses should switch off providing compression after every 5 cycles (or every 2 minutes) to avoid fatigue.
•The 2010 AHA Guidelines for CPR changed the old BLS sequence from A-B-C (Airway, Breathing, Chest compressions) to C-A-B (Chest compressions, Airway, Breathing) for all ages except newborns.
•Incorrect: The advance directive should be known prior to the initiation of CPR.
•Incorrect: Administration of cardiac medications and the use of a defibrillator are important components of a response to a cardiac arrest, but quality chest compressions and airway management are the first priority.