YMCA Lifeguard Practice Test

When a victim is not breathing and does not have a pulse, the first action to take is to begin CPR immediately. If the automated external defibrillator (AED) advises against delivering a shock, this typically indicates that the victim is not in a shockable rhythm, which often occurs in cases of cardiac arrest where CPR is necessary to maintain circulation and oxygenation. Continuing CPR is crucial because it helps to pump blood to the heart and brain, increasing the chances of survival until emergency medical services (EMS) arrive. The AED may provide further voice instructions, which are designed to guide you through the process of assisting the victim. By following these instructions, you're ensuring that you act in accordance with best practices in emergency response. Other options would not be appropriate in this situation: waiting for the AED to reset does not benefit the victim, leaving the area would mean abandoning your duty to provide care, and monitoring the victim's breathing without taking action is inadequate in a life-threatening emergency.