Which statement explains why defibrillation should occur as early as possible during a cardiac arrest?

• A. It will reduce gastric distention during ventilation.
• B. It will immediately restore consciousness.
• C. It will increase the chance of successful resuscitation.
• D. It will decrease the risk of infection.

Answer: (C)

Early defibrillation is essential because it targets the heart’s most dangerous rhythm—ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia—by stopping the chaotic electrical activity so the heart can resume an organized rhythm and perfusion. The sooner a shock is delivered, the higher the chance of return of spontaneous circulation and overall successful resuscitation, since each minute without a shock reduces survival chances. The other statements don’t address why the timing matters: defibrillation doesn’t directly reduce gastric distention, instantly restore consciousness, or prevent infection. Consciousness may not return immediately even after circulation is restored, once perfusion to the brain resumes.