What safety practice is essential when operating a defibrillator on a patient?

What safety practice is essential when operating a defibrillator on a patient?

• A. Have multiple staff hold the patient
• B. Stand clear of the patient during shock
• C. Use defibrillator while moving patient
• D. Turn off alarm before use

Answer: (B)

During defibrillation, stand clear of the patient during the shock. The electrical energy can flow through anyone in contact with the patient, so staying hands-off protects you from a shock and ensures the energy is delivered directly through the heart to be effective. Having someone hold the patient or moving them during the shock can create unintended current paths and disrupt energy delivery. Alerts and monitoring should remain active to track rhythm and device status; turning them off offers no safety benefit and can hide important changes. Clear the area, confirm no one is touching the patient, and proceed with the shock as directed.

During defibrillation, stand clear of the patient during the shock. The electrical energy can flow through anyone in contact with the patient, so staying hands-off protects you from a shock and ensures the energy is delivered directly through the heart to be effective. Having someone hold the patient or moving them during the shock can create unintended current paths and disrupt energy delivery. Alerts and monitoring should remain active to track rhythm and device status; turning them off offers no safety benefit and can hide important changes. Clear the area, confirm no one is touching the patient, and proceed with the shock as directed.