The correct answer is D. Ventricular tachycardia.
When an AED states “shock advised,” it means the device has detected a shockable rhythm, which includes:
Ventricular fibrillation (VF)
Pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT)
Among the answer choices, the only shockable rhythm listed is ventricular tachycardia.
Why this is correct:
AEDs are specifically programmed to identify rhythms that benefit from defibrillation. According to NREMT and AHA guidelines:
“Shockable rhythms include ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia.”
Why the other options are incorrect:
A. Asystole: This is a non-shockable rhythm (flatline). Treatment is CPR and medications, not defibrillation.
B. Atrial fibrillation: This is typically a perfusing rhythm and is not treated with AED shocks in cardiac arrest.
C. Pulseless electrical activity (PEA): Also a non-shockable rhythm; treated with CPR and addressing underlying causes.
Exact Extracts (NREMT-aligned EMT educational references):
“AEDs will advise a shock only for ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia.”
“Asystole and pulseless electrical activity are non-shockable rhythms.”
Clinical Priority Summary:
A “shock advised” message always indicates a shockable rhythm, and the only correct option given is ventricular tachycardia, making D the correct answer.
[References:, NREMT EMT Education Standards – Cardiology & Resuscitation, American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines for CPR and ECC, NREMT National Continued Competency Program (NCCP), , , ]
