Which criteria indicate the termination of resuscitation efforts?

The correct choice indicates that resuscitation efforts can be terminated when there is no return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and no Automated External Defibrillator (AED) shock has been delivered. This is a critical factor in deciding when to stop resuscitative measures in a patient who is in cardiac arrest.

When evaluating the efficacy of resuscitation, one of the primary goals is to restore the patient’s circulation. ROSC is defined as the return of a detectable pulse and blood pressure following cardiac arrest. If resuscitative efforts have been ongoing and there is no ROSC, it suggests that the interventions may not be successful in reviving the patient. Additionally, if no AED shock has been delivered, it indicates that the heart rhythm may not be shockable—this further emphasizes the futility of continuing resuscitation in such circumstances.

In emergency medical practice, it is essential to have clear criteria for the termination of resuscitative efforts to allocate resources effectively and to respect the dignity of the patient and their family. This understanding also ties into advanced protocols and guidelines for emergency care, ensuring that rescuer efforts align with best practices in emergency medicine.