Defibrillation
Not yet clinically reviewed
This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.
A witnessed monitored arrest can occur in an intensive care unit (ICU). Whenever ventricular fibrillation is detected in such a setting, it is always treated by electrical defibrillation.
Even when the arrest is not witnessed and monitored, when a defibrillator is available and ready, the first step should be two direct current (DC) shocks in quick succession.