When using an automated external defibrillator,it is important for the nurse to ensure that no one is touching the patient:

A) after connecting the cable to the machine.
B) when the machine is plugged in.
C) while the pads are applied.
D) while the machine analyzes the rhythm.

The nurse needs to ensure that no one is touching the patient while the machine is analyzing because this may interfere with correct interpretation of the patient's rhythm and could put anyone touching the patient at risk of being shocked.Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)may be continued up until the machine is ready to analyze,although CPR may need to be momentarily stopped for placement of the chest pad,and when the AED instructs the user to resume CPR.There is no risk in touching the patient while the machine is plugged in,and it is not possible to apply the pads without touching the patient.CPR should be performed until an automated external defibrillator (AED)is brought to the patient and the cable is ready to be inserted into the machine with the pads already in place.