What should be done immediately after delivering a shock with an AED?

After delivering a shock with an AED, the correct action to take is to start CPR right away. This is because the goal of the AED is to restore a normal heart rhythm by delivering a shock, but it does not ensure that the heart will effectively pump blood on its own afterward. Immediate CPR is crucial as it helps maintain blood flow to vital organs, especially the brain and heart, until normal heart function is restored.

Starting CPR promptly after the shock maximizes the chances of survival by providing ongoing support to the patient while the AED is re-evaluating the heart rhythm. The AED may guide to check for signs of life or provide further instructions, but regardless of those indications, CPR should be initiated as soon as possible, especially if the patient is unresponsive. Continuing to use the AED primarily focuses on rhythm analysis and shock delivery but does not replace the need for immediate CPR, which is critical in a cardiac arrest situation.