What should be minimized between ceasing compressions and delivering shocks in VF/VT?

• A. Time
• B. The dose of adrenaline
• C. Ventilation rate
• D. Compression depth

Answer: (A)

In ventricular fibrillation or pulseless VT, the goal is to restore circulation as quickly as possible because every moment without chest compressions drops blood flow to the heart and brain. The time gap between stopping compressions to check the rhythm and deliver a shock creates a no-flow period when no one is generating chest compressions, which reduces perfusion. Therefore, the interval should be kept to an absolute minimum: charge the defibrillator and deliver the shock as soon as a shockable rhythm is confirmed, ideally while minimizing any pause in compressions. After the shock, resume chest compressions immediately to maintain perfusion. The other items—adrenaline timing, ventilation rate, and compression depth—are important for overall CPR quality but do not define this critical pause.