What should an EMT do if a patient is in cardiac arrest and an AED is available?

When a patient is in cardiac arrest and an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available, the appropriate action is to apply the AED as soon as possible. AEDs are designed to analyze the heart's rhythm and determine if a shock is indicated to restore a normal heartbeat. Time is a critical factor in these situations, as each minute that passes without defibrillation decreases the chances of survival.

Using the AED quickly can significantly improve the patient's chances of recovery by addressing the abnormal heart rhythm effectively. The device provides voice prompts and instructions that guide the rescuer through the process, ensuring that even those who may not have extensive experience with defibrillation can assist effectively.

Choosing to wait for Advanced Life Support (ALS) to arrive or performing other interventions like checking the pulse or starting intubation is inappropriate in this critical scenario. These actions may delay defibrillation, which is essential in the management of cardiac arrest. The focus should always be on delivering immediate care and using available life-saving technology without unnecessary delay.